What are FBO airports, and what services do they provide to private aircraft and their passengers? Our FBO airport guide tells you everything you need to know.
The complete guide to FBO airports: What you should know
FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) airports are a comparatively small industry when compared to commercial airport terminals and services, but they play a vital role in the private aviation industry. There is a growing demand for privacy and exclusivity in air travel, and FBOs are gaining even more traction to meet these requirements.
FBOs are primarily used by luxury private jet charter companies and individual private jet owners. They offer the perfect solution for travelers who want to avoid airport queues and crowds or those on a strict schedule who need a flexible form of air travel.
Thanks to the high standard of FBOs and their exclusive services and amenities, it means private jet charter flights can provide a level of comfort and luxury before you even board your plane.
What is an FBO?
FBO is short for “Fixed-Base Operator.” These airports are also known as private airports or private terminals and cater exclusively to private aircraft, crew, and passengers. Private jet passengers use these terminals instead of commercial airport facilities. The term FBO originated in the early days of aviation. It came about before the Air Commerce Act of 1926. At the time, many pilots used former military aircraft and used farming land as their ‘airstrip’ around the country for transient flying businesses. They would set up a temporary base on these farms to offer private rides and flying lessons.
After 1926, regulations became more strict, with new training standards and pilots were now required to have a license. Aircraft maintenance also had new specifications. These new laws made it difficult to have flying businesses that moved around the country. Many started more permanent businesses and coined the term fixed-base operator to separate themselves from temporary flying schools.
Today, FBOs can be located at a private or commercial airport. At commercial airports, they are most commonly found in purpose-built facilities separate from the main terminal building.
What services does an FBO provide to passengers?
FBOs provide high-quality services to private jet passengers. The services offered will vary according to individual FBOs, but they all provide a private and premium experience. Private jet travelers love the customized service, top-tier amenities, and outstanding crews offered by FBOs.
Dedicated lounges
One of the benefits of traveling by private charter is the level of comfort at the airport between flights. FBOs have dedicated lounges that offer plush seating and maximum relaxation. These lounges will have high-speed WiFi, entertainment options, and refreshments.
Privacy and relaxation
Commercial airports can be overwhelming given the sheer number of people going through every terminal. There is very little privacy or opportunity to relax. For individuals who want to stay out of the public eye or simply want a laid-back airport experience, FBO is the ideal solution. Some will even allow passengers to drive straight up to their aircraft.
Business facilities
While complimentary WiFi is provided at most FBO airports, those with a high business travel turnover often invest in more business facilities, like quiet rooms to take calls, and conference or meeting rooms. These facilities allow business travelers to make the most of their time at the airport.
Fast immigration clearance and customs
One of the most frustrating things about commercial airports is the queues for immigration and customs. FBOs have their own immigration and customs sections that allow travelers to enjoy a quick and seamless process. In some cases, an immigration officer will board a private jet on landing so passengers can be chauffeured away once they have disembarked.
Exceptional customer service
Top-tier customer service is a given when you fly via private jet. FBOs ensure that every question and query is answered and you can meet the captain and pilot of your flight for anything you’d like to know. Need to get to another flight at your destination? Speak to your FBO in advance and they will ensure you make it there. Additionally, FBO crews are adept at handling anything that comes up without compromising on the quality of the exceptional service. There is normally complimentary parking on site, too, which helpful staff will more than happily show you.
Concierge services
Some FBOs might provide a concierge service, while others will rely on the expertise of a team like The Travel Division at Air Charter Service. As a full-scale travel agency, our team can handle everything from hotel bookings and restaurant reservations to organizing a luxury chauffeur service, car hire, and tour guide bookings. With ACS, all your on-the-ground and in-the-air services are taken care of in one place.
FBO aircraft services
Storage
Private plane companies and individual owners need somewhere to store their aircraft between flights, and an FBO often provides a mix of private and communal storage spaces in hangars. They will also probably offer tie-down facilities for shorter stays.
Crew amenities
Most FBOs cater to private aircraft crew as well as passengers. They’ll have restrooms, flight planning rooms, comfortable lounges, and meals for the crew. They might also offer lodging options for crew members as an added service while they rest and prepare for their next flight.
Refueling
One pivotal purpose of an FBO is to provide a space for planes to refuel between flights. They offer a range of fuels to serve most types of private planes, such as avgas for piston-powered engines and jet fuel for turbine engines. These services ensure that aircraft can fill up quickly and efficiently for a quick turnaround time if needed.
Aircraft checks
Most FBOs provide aircraft checks as soon as a plane touches down at their facility. Highly trained mechanics ensure that there are no mechanical or technical issues before the plane takes off again.
A team of cleaners is also on hand to board the plane once passengers have disembarked. They ensure the plane is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized and meets stringent hygiene requirements before the next passengers board.
Maintenance and repairs
Aircraft maintenance and repairs are essential FBO services, and most will offer GPU servicing, oil changes, aircraft parts, deicing services, and more.
Enjoy the luxury and convenience of an FBO with ACS
Top-level care and customer service are a given with ACS and the FBOs we work with. Together, we ensure you have a private, comfortable, and luxurious journey from the moment it begins.
Contact us to learn more about our on-demand private jet charter services and start planning your bespoke journey today.