Independent Fee Review (IFE) Services
Independent Fee Estimates (IFEs) are confidential reviews for airport sponsors by a professional, independent, experienced third party reviewer prepared per FAA guidelines. The review assists the airport sponsor to negotiate a reasonable fee for consultant services.
An IFE is an essential tool to understand, validate and negotiate cost estimates for all tasks described in the project scope of work for all parties involved (owner, consultant, funding agencies).
It is in your best interests to select an IFE review professional with the depth of experience and knowledge of the costs for all varieties of airport projects. A good understanding is essential to the structure of staff needed to complete the tasks. Critical aspects include wage rates, overhead multipliers, hours required, project complexity and sub-consultant work (geo-technical, surveying, etc.)
The FAA funds the review as an eligible administrative cost of the project and uses it to assist with project funding. The outcome of the review in combination with the project negotiation is a “Record of Negotiation” letter from the sponsor and “Determination of Reasonableness of Costs” from the FAA. Other funding agencies also may also rely on the review.