There are over 3,000 FBOs operating in the USA today, according to statistics from the National Air Transportation Association. They’re a bastion of the general aviation community and provide vital services for passengers on private flights, too.
If you’re taking a flight on a private airplane, there’s a good chance you’ll be starting your journey with a fixed base operator.
Find out more about these institutions and what they offer.
What Is a Fixed Base Operator
In the simplest terms, a fixed base operator is an airport within an airport. These venues provide services much like airports do for passengers, crew, and aircraft owners.
They’re usually located close to the main airport terminal but operate independently of the main airport. They provide invaluable services to the private aircraft industry.
There are three main types of FBOs operational today:
Tier One
These are large FBOs with revenues exceeding $25 million per annum. They typically offer a full portfolio of FBO services such as refueling facilities, hangar space, and OEM-certified aircraft maintenance services for turbine aircraft.
Tier Two
Tier Two FBOs bring in between $10 and $25 million annually and offer an extensive range of services akin to those available at Tier One FBOs.
Typically, these FBOs cater mainly to specialized operators like medevac or geophysical services.
Tier Three
The smallest, most common FBOs generate less than $10 million a year. They provide basic services for piston and turboprop airplanes and often host aircraft rental outlets and flight schools.
FBO Services
FBOs offer a huge range of services onsite to ensure ultimate convenience for their clients. These include:
- Aircraft fueling services
- Tie-downs and hangars for airplanes
- Parking for passengers and crew
- Aircraft repairs and maintenance
- Aircraft sales and rentals
- Towing services for aircraft
- Pilot’s lounges, flight planning venues, and restrooms
- Baggage handling
- Passenger lounges and restrooms
- Facilities for pets
- Restaurants and business facilities
Some FBOs form a hub for services like flight schools, crop dusting services, aerial photographers, and sightseeing flights.
Premier FBO services offer every convenience imaginable, including luxury lounges, concierge services, and extensive aircraft servicing options.
The Benefits of Using an FBO
An FBO airport makes all the conveniences of taking a private recreational or business flight possible. You won’t experience any queues or wait time when you arrive at an FBO flight, and you can proceed to your aircraft with minimal security checks.
In many cases, you can drive right up to your waiting airplane and board straight away. The onsite staff will take care of your baggage and park your car in a secure location for you.
They’ll ensure you receive all the benefits you’ve already discussed when you chartered your jet. These include food and drinks, experienced cabin crew, and more.
Going Places?
If you’re fortunate enough to enjoy the luxury of chartering a plane, remember, you can request a fixed base operator that best suits your needs.
So, now you know what’s on offer, don’t settle for second best. A little research goes a long way when deciding on the best option for you.
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