Airlines operating at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) are required to utilize approved Aviation Support Service Providers that hold a valid and approved Operating Permit or Agreement with the Department of Aviation. If an airline wishes to request approval for a new provider, they must submit a request at least 60 days in advance of the desired service start date. However, the approval of such requests is at the discretion of the Department of Aviation and is based on operational needs, not solely on cost or national solicitations.
Evaluation Criteria for New Service Provider Requests
To ensure the highest quality of service and efficient airport operations, the following criteria are considered when evaluating requests for a new Aviation Support Service Provider:
Airline Sponsorship – The request must come from an airline currently operating at LAS, as the airport exists to serve airline operations.
Service Gap Justification – The airline must explain why the requested service cannot be provided by an existing approved provider.
Current Provider Performance – If the request is due to issues with an existing provider, the airline should outline concerns and past experiences. The Department of Aviation will review whether previous concerns were formally reported.
Alternative Providers Considered – Airlines should document other approved providers they evaluated, ensuring transparency in the selection process.
Selection Criteria – The airline must demonstrate that the decision to select a new provider is based on operational and service quality factors, not solely on cost.
Operational Considerations
Aviation Affairs also considers the broader management of Airport facilities under Clark County Code, Section 20.02.020. To ensure safe and efficient operations in a common-use environment, the airport evaluates:
Number of Existing Providers – The Department of Aviation assesses whether there are too few or too many providers for a particular service. Too few limits competition, while too many create operational inefficiencies.
Compliance Record – The performance of existing Providers is reviewed to maintain high service standards. Persistent non-compliance may weigh against approving additional Providers.
Operational Impact – The introduction of a new provider must align with the airport’s overall management strategy. Adding a new Provider may also lead to the eventual replacement of underperforming companies.
Requests to Add Services to an Existing Operating Permit
Permits are issued for specific services. Any request to expand services under an existing permit is treated with the same review process as a new provider request.
Evaluation Criteria for Service Additions
The following must be demonstrated:
Airline Sponsorship – Requests must come from an Airline operating at LAS.
Service Gap Justification – The Airline must explain why the requested service is not sufficiently provided by existing approved service providers.
Current Provider Review – The Airline should provide background on any concerns with its current provider, allowing Aviation to take corrective action if needed.
Alternative Providers Considered – The Airline should list all Providers considered, including the current one, unless valid concerns exist.
Selection Criteria – The Airline should explain the basis for selecting the proposed Provider, showing that the decision involves more than cost considerations.
Notification Requirements for Existing Providers
Authorized Aviation Support Service Providers must provide 30 days’ advance written notice to the Airport Business Office before offering new services to any Airline or cargo carrier customer.
For all permit-related inquiries or requests, airlines and service providers should contact the Aviation Affairs Division to ensure compliance with airport regulations and to facilitate a smooth approval process.
Contact
Email Erika Hanuscin: erikah@lasairport.com Phone: (702) 261-4918 Website: Aviation Affairs