Private aircraft have access to a vast network of airports, including not only the major regional and international airports serviced by commercial airlines, but also small regional airfields with dedicated private aviation terminals. In fact, cities such as New York, Los Angeles and London offer dedicated private airports like Teterboro, Van Nuys, and Farnborough, respectively.
When you fly privately through one of these airports or terminals, you’ll utilize that location’s fixed-base operator (commonly referred to as the FBO) — a specialized entity that exclusively serves private aviation operators and clients.
What Exactly Is an FBO (Fixed-Base Operator)?
Simply put, an FBO functions as a private jet terminal, providing essential services and amenities specifically for private aviation travelers and crew. Historically named for being fixed locations providing aviation services, today FBOs represent luxury terminals equipped with facilities tailored for private flyers.
Typical FBO amenities include upscale lounges, concierge services, Wi-Fi access, refreshments, conference rooms and private restrooms. Many larger FBOs offer additional comforts such as catering, customs clearance, hotel booking assistance and transportation arrangements.
FBOs exist at both commercial and private airports, consistently offering a quiet, comfortable space away from crowded commercial terminals.
Key Benefits of Using Smaller Regional Airports
Choosing smaller regional airports for private flights dramatically enhances the flying experience in several critical ways:
Proximity and Convenience
Smaller airports usually provide closer access to your final destination, eliminating long drives from major airports. Imagine landing minutes away from your meeting in downtown instead of spending an hour in traffic after landing at a large hub.
Efficiency and Reduced Wait Times
Regional airports are far less congested, allowing rapid turnaround times and minimal delays. Unlike commercial travel, private jet flyers often arrive only 20-30 minutes before departure, quickly pass through private security screenings, and board directly. The absence of TSA lines and crowded gates makes travel incredibly efficient.
Greater Scheduling Flexibility
Smaller airports typically have fewer restrictions on flight slots and operating hours, giving you maximum flexibility. Whether your schedule requires an early morning departure or a late-night arrival, regional airports can accommodate your specific needs without lengthy waits or complex coordination.
Access to Remote and Exclusive Locations
Many desirable destinations lack commercial airline access, with only private airports that typically have relatively short runways. Private jets can land at these exclusive airfields, directly connecting you to remote resorts, private islands and secluded retreats otherwise difficult or impossible to reach.
Privacy and Personalized Service
Smaller airports and FBOs offer unmatched privacy. Travelers bypass crowded terminals, often driving directly to their aircraft and enjoying discrete boarding. This heightened level of privacy is especially beneficial for celebrities, executives, and travelers seeking discretion and tranquility during their journey.
Potential Cost Savings
Operating from regional airports often comes with reduced fees compared to major hubs. Landing, parking and handling charges at smaller airfields are frequently lower, making private travel more economically attractive and potentially lowering the overall charter cost.
What to Expect at an FBO
For first-time private flyers, the experience of utilizing an FBO is refreshingly straightforward and pleasant:
- Arrival and check-in: You’ll typically arrive only shortly before departure. Upon entering the FBO, friendly staff will greet you, quickly verify your ID, and assist with your luggage.
- Streamlined security: Security screenings at FBOs are efficient and minimally intrusive. There are no long queues or invasive procedures. International flights may include quick customs clearance right at the FBO.
- Relaxing in comfort: While awaiting departure, enjoy the comfortable FBO lounge featuring refreshments, Wi-Fi and quiet workspaces. That said, most passengers barely have time to settle in, thanks to swift boarding procedures.
- Effortless boarding: Boarding your private jet is simple, often involving just a short walk or drive directly to the aircraft. The process takes only minutes, minimizing downtime and getting you airborne quickly.
Throughout the process, expect attentive, personalized service designed to make your experience seamless and enjoyable from start to finish.
Real-Life Examples of Regional Airport Convenience
Consider these scenarios demonstrating the practical advantages of smaller airports:
- Business efficiency: Executives flying to Los Angeles avoid busy LAX, instead landing at Van Nuys Airport, just minutes from critical meetings downtown. The streamlined process can save hours, allowing the team more time for important business matters.
- Luxury leisure travel: A family vacationing in Aspen lands directly at Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, mere minutes from the ski resort. In contrast, the drive from Denver to Aspen takes a minimum of three hours — not including the time required to pick up your rental car, and not accounting for the often poor weather conditions that can slow down highway travel. Avoiding long drives and complicated transfers allows more leisure time and less travel fatigue.
These examples underscore why many private flyers consistently choose smaller airports, enjoying direct routes, privacy, and reduced stress.
Final Thoughts
Choosing private jet airports and utilizing the specialized services of FBOs significantly transforms air travel into a pleasant, efficient and highly personalized experience. Whether traveling for business, leisure or exploring remote locations, smaller airports offer unmatched advantages over congested commercial hubs. Understanding these benefits empowers new private flyers to maximize their journey’s convenience and enjoyment.
