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Unlike commercial airlines, private jets and charter flights primarily use FBO, Fixed Base Operation, for arrivals and departures. If you are new to traveling by private or charter planes, you might be wondering, what is an FBO? In this article, we discuss the key features and services offered by an FBO.

Definition of an “FBO”

“FBO” means “Fixed Base Operation”. An FBO is an organization granted the right by an airport to operate at the airport. The FBO provides services such as fueling, hangaring, tie-down and parking, aircraft rental, aircraft maintenance, and flight instruction. An FBO caters specifically to private and charter flights.

The history behind the term “Fixed Base Operation” dates back to the early 20^th century. Before the U.S. Air Commerce Act was passed in 1926, transient pilots (known as “barnstormers”) offered passenger flights and airshows. They traveled around the country and landed in farmers’ fields rather than in airports. The U.S. Air Commerce Act of 1926 regulated aviation support businesses for maintenance and training standards, leading to the new term “Fixed Base Operation” because of the development of fixed airport addresses.

What Services are Offered by an FBO?

At a minimum, an FBO sells aviation fuel, provides space for parking, and supports take-off and landing. Many FBOs will provide maintenance services as well. At J.A. Air Center, our comprehensive FBO services include the following:

• Aircraft Detailing
• Aircraft Hangar Space
• Avionics Equipment at Pilot Store
• Certified Aircraft Maintenance
• Charter Services
• Crew Services
• FAA-certified Part 145 Repair Station
• Flight Instruction
• Fueling Service
• Ground Handling
• Ground Transportation
• Passenger Services
• Private Terminal
• 20,000 Square Foot Canopy for Arrival/Departure Coverage

In particular, we have fuel and maintenance services that are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our staff of certified mechanics and aviation professionals work around the clock to ensure that every arrival and departure is convenient, safe, and welcoming.

What Amenities are Offered by an FBO?

Basic amenities at an FBO are a seating area, Wi-Fi, and restrooms. Most FBOs also include a pilot lounge area to allow pilots to relax between flights.

At J.A. Air Center, we offer extensive amenities to pilots and passengers in our spacious FBO, including the following:

• Complimentary gourmet coffee and cookies
• Complimentary wireless high-speed internet
• Full restrooms including showers
• Pilot lounge
• Pilot’s weather briefing and planning room
• Apple AirPrint capable printers for printing from iOS devices
• WSI Weather and printing capabilities
• Comfortable reclining leather chairs
• Fully appointed office space
• Exercise room with private shower
• Hotel reservation services
• Catering services
• Crew car
• Rental car reservation services
• Secure, gated parking
• Satellite television
• Snooze rooms
• VOIP phone system

Whether you are a pilot or a passenger, our goal is to provide you with a relaxing stop between your destinations and first-class support to make your trip even more enjoyable.

What Security Standards Apply to an FBO?

One of the top advantages of private flights is the ability to forego the long lines for security that are a standard inconvenience at commercial airports. According to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the average wait time at commercial airports is 30 minutes (as of January 21, 2019). Of course, wait times can easily become longer during times of high-volume traffic, such as around the holidays.

Although an FBO still implements security measures for the safety of crew and passengers, the significantly lower volume of traffic means that security can be quick and relatively hassle-free. The TSA has outlined minimum security measures that apply to an FBO. In the United States, passengers on a Part 135 charter flight need to provide current government-issued identification. The passengers must also be on the passenger manifest. In addition to meeting TSA standards, FBOs may be subject to safety regulations from state, regional, and/or local authorities.

If applicable, passengers will be subject to immigration checks. There may be additional screening in airports outside the United States, such as luggage searches and full-body scanners.

Many FBOs implement additional security measures for enhanced safety. For example, an FBO may have on-site security personnel and surveillance cameras.

How Common are FBOs?

FBOs are spread throughout the United States. In fact, private aviation in the United States has access to over 5,000 airports (compared to less than 500 for commercial airlines). Additionally, some larger airports have two or more FBOs. There are as many as six FBOs on-site in airports with a high volume of private jet flights, such as Teterboro Airport near New York and Van Nuys Airport near Los Angeles.

You can check online databases of airports (such as aopa.org) to find a list of all FBOs in your area and what services they offer. If you are arriving/departing from an airport that does not have an FBO, your charter operator may still be able to arrange the flight using a local handling company.

Are FBOs Only for Private Airports?

FBOs are meant to service private aircraft and charter companies; therefore, they will only be located at airports that offer private jet services. Private and commercial airports are usually completely separate, but some commercial airports have private terminals with FBOs.

Can I Request a Different FBO?                                                         

Most operators will allow you to change the FBO selection when booking a private flight as a passenger. Services such as FlightBridge facilitate reservations for pilots and flight departments at 1000+ FBO.

J.A. Air Center: Chicago’s Premium FBO

J.A. Air Center is the Midwest’s leading aviation support facility. Our FBO features a fully appointed terminal and offers concierge-level services to pilots and passengers. Over 150,000 square feet of space at J.A. Air Center means ample room to house private jets and flight departments. Professional fueling and maintenance services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

For more information about our FBO services, call our FBO Manager, Randy Fank, at 630.549.2106. You can also fill out our online contact form or make an FBO reservation online using FlightBridge.

Maybe you’ve dreamed for years of taking to the skies in an airplane that you personally own. Believe it or not, small plane ownership is not limited to those with extraordinary fortunes. With some research and planning, you may discover that owning a small plane is an achievable goal. In the content below, we discuss costs and considerations for purchasing a small plane.

How Much Does a Small Plane Cost?

Purchase Costs: Factory-New Small Planes

The initial purchase cost of a small plane depends on the type of aircraft.

Ultralight aircrafts are the most inexpensive option. These are single-seat, single-engine planes that are ideal for personal recreation. An ultralight aircraft can usually be purchased new for an average range of $8000 to $15,000.

Single-engine planes will typically cost between $15,000 and $100,000. Although single-engine planes are more expensive than ultralights, they can hold multiple people and are still relatively economical compared to other aircraft.

Multi-engine planes are more expensive and can cost up to $300,000 or more, depending on the features. The higher cost pays off with increased safety: if one engine loses power in flight, the other engine can still allow the pilot to navigate to a suitable landing location. Additionally, multi-engine planes generally have higher speed and performance.

If you choose to buy a factory-new small plane, J.A. Air can help you reduce the cost by negotiating on your behalf to ensure that you obtain the best value. Our team has a wealth of market knowledge and will gladly work with you to prepare a budget for a small plane that meets your needs. Reach out to us for more information on our aircraft acquisition services.

Purchase Costs: Pre-Owned Small Planes

Although the initial purchase price of a small plane can be substantial, you can reduce costs by purchasing a pre-owned plane. For example, Plane & Pilot Magazine reports that a good-quality used Cessna 150 is easily obtainable for as little as $30,000.

If you choose to purchase a pre-owned plane, make sure to get a thorough pre-purchase inspection. A pre-owned plane may have hidden defects that cost thousands of dollars to repair if they are left undetected, and a damage history may lower the resale value of the aircraft. Our team at J.A. Air can assist you with inspecting a plane that you are considering; simply contact us for more information about our inspections and other aircraft acquisition services.

Costs of Financing a Small Plane

Depending on your financial situation, you might choose to take out a loan to purchase a small plane. This will result in interest costs to include in your long-term budget.

Multiple factors will influence the interest rate of a loan to finance a small plane. According to Investopedia, these factors may include your credit score, the type of the plane’s use, how frequently you intend to use it, and the condition of the plane (including its year, make, and model).

Costs of Storing a Small Plane

Planes must be stored in a hangar or outdoors. If you do not own property suitable for storing a plane, you will need to rent space from an airport. According to a 2021 article from Investopedia, the average hangar cost is $350 per month, plus $100 for tiedown gear.

Maintenance and Inspection Costs for a Small Plane

Maintenance costs are a significant but often neglected aspect of the cost of owning a small plane. According to Aviation Pros, maintenance costs vary based on the type and class of the aircraft, but “can range from 10 to 45 percent of the total yearly operating expenses.” Although not part of the initial purchase price of a small plane, future maintenance costs are an important factor to consider when deciding what type of aircraft to purchase.

Inspection costs are another expense to consider, as small aircraft must be inspected annually. Honeywell reports that annual inspections range in price from $750 to $2000, with higher costs for specialized planes with retractable landing gear.

Small Plane Fuel Costs

Aviation fuel is more expensive than typical automotive fuel, averaging at $5 a gallon. Flying more often will result in increased gas and oil costs. According to the SherpaReport Guide to Private Aviation, fuel is the largest variable cost of owning a small plane and may “account for as much as 70 percent of your variable operational costs.”

Fuel mileage may vary based on what type of small plane you purchase. For detailed information about specific small plane models, contact us for a free consultation.

Costs of Aircraft Insurance

Many of the factors discussed above also relate to the cost of aircraft insurance. According to Honeywell, insurance companies calculate aircraft insurance premiums based on factors such as the age of the aircraft, the aircraft hours, and where and how (tie-down vs. hangar) the aircraft will be parked. Meanwhile, you can save money on aircraft insurance premiums by taking actions such as obtaining more certifications or undergoing regular training.

Additionally, although title insurance is not legally required, it offers worthwhile protection against unexpected claims on your aircraft’s title.

Be sure to obtain quotes from an insurance company before purchasing a small plane.

Taxes and Registration Fees for Small Planes

Keep in mind that state sales and use taxes may increase the ultimate price of your small plane purchase. The Pilot’s Guide to Taxes, published by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), provides a helpful overview. For detailed advice, consult a tax professional.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires all aircraft owners to register their aircraft and re-register every three years (for a $5 re-registration fee). In addition, some states have small plane registration requirements and associated fees, so be sure to look up the requirements in your state.

Interested in Buying a Small Plane? We Can Help!

J.A. Air has over 30 years of experience in assisting local customers with finding the right aircraft for their unique wants and needs. Our acquisition consultations are always free! Let us answer your questions and help you navigate the specific costs of purchasing a small plane. Call us at 800-323-5966 or fill out an online contact form.

Thanks to electronic logs and document storage, gone are the days of pilots lugging around heavy flight bags. However, you can still expect to bring along certain pilot supplies to use on every flight. Whether you’re an experienced pilot or you’ve recently acquired your private or commercial license, there’s an important list of tools you’ll want (and need) to fly!

Some supplies are essential while others are nice to have—just in case. Regardless, staying well-prepared aids in a safe and smooth flight! In the content below, we will define the top ten pilot supplies to always have on hand to prepare you for long flight times and layovers.

The Top 10 Pilot Supplies to Always Have on Hand

#1. Pilot’s License, Photo ID, & Medical Certificate

First and foremost, you cannot fly without your pilot’s license, government-issued photo ID, and medical certificate. These documents and certificates are legal requirements to always have on hand as a pilot! Therefore, keep these documents accessible in your flight bag so you can stay organized and easily retrieve them for security checkpoints.

#2. Flight Bag

One of the most basic yet essential items you need as a pilot is a flight bag. Depending on your flying schedules and routes, you’ll want to consider a small or large flight bag for holding pilot and medical certificates, headsets, charts, and devices, among other miscellaneous items.

#3. Headset

Equally as important as your photo identification and pilot license, an aviation headset is also a must-have pilot supply to always have with you. Having a proper aviation headset is crucial because it is your primary means of communication during flight.

Therefore, you need a comfortable headset with a proper fit, high-quality audio speakers, a microphone, and noise-canceling features to eliminate irrelevant background noise. Don’t forget to also pack spare batteries for your headset!

#4. Digital Tablet

Another must-have in our top ten pilot supplies list includes some form of digital tablet! Digital tablets and handheld devices such as an iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ make it simple and easy to access navigational charts, logbooks, and supplemental digital documents. Therefore, equip your tablet with the proper charting and navigation apps like ForeFlight and SkyDemon to significantly benefit your flight experience.

#5. Kneeboard Case

A kneeboard is an old-school yet essential pilot supply to always have on hand for every flight. The accessory straps to your upper thigh and allows for hands-free use of navigation apps and charts during flight. It’s a functional yet lightweight tool that even enables you to charge your devices while in use. There’s also a convenient space to keep pen and paper!

#6. Non-Polarized Sunglasses

Non-polarized sunglasses are among the top ten necessary pilot supplies to ensure proper vision and reduce eye fatigue throughout daytime flying. Therefore, as your vision is one of a pilot’s most valuable assets, be sure to invest in a non-polarized lens. Doing so allows you to effectively see readings from instruments that have anti-glare filters!

#7. Handheld Two-Way Radio

Communication is another non-negotiable essential during your flight, and although your primary communication source is your headset, sometimes…things happen! Therefore, we highly recommend carrying a handheld two-way radio for backup because a lack of communication may lead to problematic and dangerous situations. Additionally, be sure to also pack charging cradles, cables, and a spare battery in your flight bag.

#8. Fuel Tester

During your pre-flight checklist, you’ll want to check for fuel quality. Therefore, we recommend adding a fuel tester to your inventory of important pilot supplies.

A fuel tester allows you to check for water or solid contaminants in your aircraft’s fuel since you may get different fuel from other airports. This compact, lightweight tool is easy to use, fits discretely into your flight bag, and often comes with a reversible screwdriver attachment.

#9. Snacks & Water

Stay prepared for long flights and layovers by having a few snacks on hand, along with a water bottle or two. Although snacks may not seem like an essential pilot supply, being hungry or thirsty during a flight can potentially affect your cognitive and decision-making skills. With long flight times, layovers, and delays, you’ll be thankful for high-protein snacks that sustain your energy when a meal isn’t an option.

#10. First Aid & Other Emergency Supplies

A first aid kit keeps minimal cuts and scrapes under control while giving you peace of mind during more series emergencies. Although first aid kits are not suitable substitutions for real medical treatment, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive kit and the knowledge of how to use the tools inside to provide basic medical assistance when necessary. Other emergency pilot supplies to include in your first aid and emergency supply kit include a flashlight and a pocketknife.

Experience First Class Aircraft Services with J.A. Air

Now that you have your flight bag packed with our top ten pilot supplies to always have on hand, it’s time to consider other aircraft services to aid your aviation!

At J.A. Air Center, our knowledgeable, licensed, factory-trained team provides superior workmanship with attention to detail and quality for things like aircraft maintenance, detailing services, refurbishing, and avionics installation.

Not only will your aircraft look and fly its very best with our services, but you’ll also feel confident that our first-class customer support will adequately handle all of your needs. Pack your pilot bag and contact us today!

Owning an aircraft is an exciting venture to embark on, but it’s common for the ebbs and flows of life to lead to the next chapter. Whether that chapter involves accommodating new flying habits or transitioning to a different passion, you’ll soon ask yourself, “How can I sell my aircraft?”

When considering each component involved in selling an aircraft, it’s easy to feel intimidated, especially if you’re newer to the market. Fortunately, we make the selling process simple! Below, we discuss the first steps in selling your aircraft including paperwork organization, maintenance, and cleaning.

How To Sell My Aircraft: The First 3 Steps

#1. Compiling & Organizing Paperwork

Selling an aircraft is no small feat. It’s a responsibility-laden process involving interested buyers and thorough documentation: every detail must be accounted for. From the day you buy your airplane, you are expected to complete and maintain mounds of paperwork including logbooks, maintenance records, and A.D. compliances.

One of the initial and most important steps in the selling process is to acquire and organize all paperwork, whether you do so by partnering with an aircraft brokerage selling independently.

To begin, draft and make copies of all documented records as the sale progresses. You must also acquire service, maintenance, and technological histories. If you have yet to list your aircraft for sale or are still considering the possibility, it’s best to stay proactive about organizing all the necessary papers for an efficient, seamless sale.

We understand this may pose as time consuming for personal and corporate schedules. Therefore, we recommend partnering with aviation brokerage services to work on your behalf of the selling process, ultimately saving you both time and money.

#2. Aircraft Maintenance

As dedicated as you are to your favorite bird, it’s no surprise the maintenance and upkeep you adamantly implemented will ultimately bolster the sale of your aircraft. Overhaul, inspection, and replacement alike ensure your aircraft complies with the highly regulated industry.

While preparing your aircraft for sale, conduct frequent aircraft and engine maintenance to ensure pristine functioning of significant mechanical and technical aspects of the plane. Additionally, examine and verify that interior parts are in great condition or replace as needed. Examples include installing new seals around fuel caps or mending upholstery.

Furthermore, both line maintenance checks and A, B, and C checks are essential for top performance and safety. Although these maintenance checks should be regularly completed, it’s also a mandatory step when selling your aircraft. Therefore, ensure the airworthiness of your aircraft as a whole and each mechanical instrument to guarantee a trustworthy sale.

#3. Cleaning & Detailing

With paperwork and maintenance well underway, the next step in selling your aircraft is to aesthetically prepare it for the market. First and foremost, complete a thorough inspection of your aircraft’s interior to remove all personal items or additional installations (not original to the aircraft and do not impact it’s safety or operation) that you do not intend to sell. Then, clean and detail the aircraft’s interior and exterior to highlight its pristine condition, allowing buyers to effortlessly envision this aircraft as their own.

To effectively clean your aircraft exterior, begin with a thorough wet wash to remove external debris. Then, to give a spot-free finish, protect the exterior paint with a wax application. Next, buff and polish the exterior to help seal the paint and reduce parasitic drag.

During this process, it is crucial to follow the following six aircraft detailing rules:

• Never use any type of power washer on an aircraft.
• Never use any household products, only specialty products.
• Be extremely careful with power buffers and avoid automotive orbital buffers.
• Always use the gentlest compound required to remove stains and oxidation.
• Take your time.
• Be sure to check the rules at your airport before you begin washing.

Upon cleaning the interior, be sure to pay special attention to thoroughly revitalizing and sanitizing high-touch areas in the aircraft cabin, including seats, windows, aisles, seat buckles, and the lavatory. Additionally, vacuum and dry-clean carpeting and upholstery, complete any stain removal where applicable, and condition any leather upholstery to have the cabin looking brand new. Finish it off with wood and trim polish, and your bird will be ready for its next owner!

Sell Your Aircraft with J.A. Air

Parting ways with your aircraft can be a challenging process with many steps, but we help make the process easy! At J.A. Air, we strive to provide you with incredible services and expertise to aid in your selling process.

From aircraft detailing services to aircraft maintenance to aircraft acquisition services, we get your plane sale-ready. You can enjoy the excitement of your next plane or jet without the hassle or stress it may involve getting there, thanks to our knowledgeable, licensed, and factory-trained team. Contact us today for inspection needs, repairs, maintenance, brokerage options, and detailing services. We are excited to assist with your new ventures, whether you’re looking to buy a new make or model or simply acquire a new transportation method.