Pilots who regularly fly small planes on chartered trips will quickly learn the importance of planning ahead.  Because most general aviation planes are not permitted to fly into major international airports, the pilot must figure out which airports they will use for the trip.  Unlike major commercial airports, each of these airfields may be completely different.  Some are open 24 hours and have indoor hangars while others may only be open for 10 hours a day.  As a result, general aviation pilots rely heavily on sources for airport FBO info.

What is an FBO?

An FBO is a fixed-base operator.  When the US passed the Air Commerce Act in 1926, the FAA defined an FBO as a commercial business with the right to sponsor or operate an airport.  The services provided by an FBO include fueling, tie-down service, hangar space, parking, aircraft maintenance, flight instruction and more.  For pilots who travel across the country frequently, they begin to choose certain airports again and again, often getting to know the FBO quite well, but newer pilots might need some help finding their way around the various GA airports.

While not required by law, Fixed-Base Operators usually provide some basic auxiliary services to pilots, flight crew and passengers, including restroom facilities, waiting areas and communications (telephone, Internet access, and fax).  Larger and better equipped FBOs may additionally offer food vending/restaurant facilities, ground transportation, flight planning and weather updates, pilot/crew lounges, aviation supplies and access to in-flight catering.  They may also offer hotel reservations and concierge services for both crew and passengers.

Who runs the FBO?

Some airfields are so small that the township or community itself may provide fuel services or operate the basic FBO services for the airport, but others are privately-owned, for-profit institutions.  Either way, the airport FBO info itself is no substitute for proper flight planning.  Most FBO directories will also provide detailed information about the runways, including the number of runways, their dimension and elevation.  Pilots would do well to pay attention to this information because they may be landing at night or in foul weather without the help of a tower operator.

Sources of airport FBO info vary greatly, from printed directories to web sites and mobile applications.  Digital versions are more likely to be current and easy to use, with flight plans that can be saved or emailed to a mobile device.  These directories can also be very useful for pilots who are planning lodging, dining or entertainment options for their passengers.  Keep in mind that not every general aviation airport offers ground transportation services or an indoor area where arriving passengers can plan their next move.  Generally, pilots are advised to make these arrangements in advance.

For the most reliable and up-to-date source of airport FBO info, consult TAA (The Airport Authority) regularly.