Fixed Base Operator (FBO)
Operate FBO providing fuel, services, and amenities at airport
Overview
FBOs generate $1,000,000-$10,000,000 annually with 15-35% margins through fuel sales, hangar rent, services, and fees.
In 2025, airports need FBOs serving transient and based aircraft.
Services include aviation fuel sales (avgas, jet fuel), hangar and tiedown rental, pilot amenities and lounge, ground handling services, aircraft rental and flight school, and concierge services.
Successful FBOs provide excellent customer service, maintain clean professional facilities, offer competitive fuel prices, build relationships with corporate and charter operators, and provide full-service amenities.
Location at busy airport critical.
Marketing through flight planning apps, directories, and reputation.
Required Skills
- Airport Operations
- Fuel Operations
- Business Management
- Customer Service
- Safety & Compliance
- Real Estate
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Multiple revenue streams
- Critical airport infrastructure
- Recurring revenue from based aircraft
- Fuel sales high volume
- Can build corporate client base
Cons
- Extremely high startup investment
- Need airport lease or property
- Environmental regulations for fuel
- Very long time to profitability
- Competition from existing FBOs
How to Get Started
- Secure airport property or lease
- Invest in fuel tanks and infrastructure
- Build FBO facility and amenities
- Get fuel supply contracts
- Hire professional staff
- Market to transient and local pilots
- Build reputation for service and safety
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