But before rushing to increase the cost of flying, politicians and airports should evaluate how the current level of infrastructure funding is being spent and examine smarter ways to finance needed improvements. Taxes and fees have increased with the number of passengers, and the total amount of money available is near record-high levels. The typical government burden on an airline ticket now exceeds 20%. Travelers shouldn’t have to bear an even heavier load for infrastructure upgrades, especially when the opportunity for more effective reform is at hand.