A newly opened coffee stand at Juneau International Airport, Flying Squirrel Espresso, is creating a stir not just with its beverages but also with a dispute over its authorization to operate. The stand, located in the Alaska Seaplanes cargo/concourse area, lacks an official tenant or subtenant agreement with the airport, posing a liability risk that could jeopardize the airport’s federal funding. Despite its popularity among locals for its convenient location and longer hours, the airport management insists on compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. The owner of Flying Squirrel, Terra Peters, entered an agreement with Alaska Seaplanes rather than the airport, leading to misunderstandings about operational requirements. Tensions are high as both parties navigate legal and regulatory frameworks, with Alaska Seaplanes arguing that their lease allows such operations, while the airport maintains that FAA regulations apply to the entire facility. The issue has garnered significant public interest, with many supporting the coffee stand and urging a resolution that keeps it open.
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