FBO Survival Series - Survival Tip #4: Develop an Early Warning System

By Ron Jackson and John Enticknap, Aviation Business Strategies Group

Welcome to the fourth installment of our continuing AC-U-KWIK FBO Connection Series: FBO Survival. This series focuses on the various strategies and tactics needed to survive the daily rigors of running a successful FBO operation.


“History is a vast early warning system.”
-Norman Cousins

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Huntsville International Airport Reopens West Runway

After a year-long $27.8 million improvement project, Huntsville International Airport (HSV) has reopened its west runway along with adjacent taxiways. Improvements made to the west airfield meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements to operate Panalpina's 747-8 freighters, which are classified as Group VI aircraft.
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KWIK-TURN: AC-U-KWIK's Q&A Session With Guest John Bridi of Million Air

Q: Aside from your fuel prices, what attracts people back to your FBO?

A: Our team of happy and engaged employees are always looking for ways to create extraordinary experiences for our pilots and our passengers. The real secret is that they all have true "service hearts" and it shows the minute you taxi onto a Million Air ramp.  We do not just have extraordinary Line Service Technicians and Customer Service Representatives, we have Professionals.

 

Q: Have you introduced any new products or services in the past 12 months?

A: Million Air Houston is expanding its footprint!  We have added a huge new ramp with ample aircraft parking and are adding a brand new 20,000 sq. ft. FBO terminal which will open in late 2013.  Added facilities in the new FBO have a strong focus on flight crew amenities.  The state of the art FBO will include a dedicated Pilots Lounge, Snooze Rooms, and will have our Million Air Theater room in addition to all of the amenities you have grown to expect and love at a Million Air location.  If you are planning on relocating to Houston, we also have tenant office space available in the FBO.  We are actively adding new tenants every week who love the new expansive ramp with easy in and easy out access and soon will have a brand new facility to call home.

 

Q: What is your opinion on the current state of business aviation?

A: We’re very happy to see businesses flying again.  It's clear that the road back is being paved by those smart businesses who continue to embrace general aviation as their primary tool to their success. 

 

Q: What is your wish list for the future of your FBO or business aviation in general? 

A: We are so honored to be part of the Million Air family of FBOs.  Million Air was recently been named #1 FBO chain in Propilot and by Pilots Choice for the second year in a row. Our wish is more of a promise, we promise to continue to provide the care and service you expect from Million Air Houston every time you visit.

 

Q: What is the strangest situation or an interesting fact about your FBO?

A: The most interesting fact is Million Air Houston has the largest footprint on the field with over 99,000 square feet of hangar space, nearly 40,000 square feet of executive terminal and class A and B office space with more than ten (10) acres of ramp space.  The new FBO facility will have a premium 2nd floor balcony office space overlooking Hobby Airport, which will be one of the most premium office spaces in the area.  Large, luxurious lobby for guest arrivals and departures, 2nd floor atrium style entertainment landing, rich finishes and inspiring architecture throughout the facility, and a congenial club-like atmosphere for multiple gatherings are just some of the many features of our new FBO.  And of course we have strong focus on special designed pilot relaxation and entertainment rooms.  We have taken every consideration into account to make sure we provide the best amenities throughout our facilities to make you want to call Million Air Houston your home.

Signature Flight Support Acquires Majority Stake in Starlink Aviation FBO of Montréal

Signature Flight Support, a BBA Aviation company, announced today that it has agreed to purchase a majority share of Starlink Aviation Inc’s FBO in Montréal, Quebec, Canada. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be completed during the third quarter of 2013.
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