The federal government announced a new plan to reduce congestion at New York-area airports that could have air travelers paying more.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters said airports will be given the flexibility to change landing fees depending on the time flights land and traffic volume, rather than the plane?s weight. This means travelers that fly during busier times of the day may have to shell out more for their tickets.

Peters said the aim is to spread flights out evenly throughout the day. She says the new policy helps to avoid the need for government regulation.

Some travelers at LaGuardia Airport said they would deal with increased prices if it would decrease delays. However, others said they don?t trust the airlines to use the policy responsibly.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said it is good the government is addressing the issue, but called the plan small steps that don?t address the fundamental problem.

The proposed landing fee policy will be open to public comment for 45 days before it is finalized.

AP wire reports contributed to this article.