FBO Lawsuit Attorneys Representing FBOs in FAA and DOT Proceedings and Legal Issues

When airports grant an organization the right to operate an airport and provide aviation-related services, this is considered a Fixed Base Operator (FBO) model. Airports of all sizes work with FBOs to offer customers different services and amenities. Most FBOs at airports with medium to high traffic are non-government, public, or private organizations.

FBO services include aircraft rental, storage, repair and maintenance, fuel sales, scheduled air carrier services, and much more. Like other services in the aviation industry, FBOs are subject to legal issues when conducting business.

FBO negligence is one of the most common violations among FBO providers. For example, FBOs might offer aircraft fueling services. If a technician forgets to fuel the airplanes or adds the wrong fuel, this negligence can lead to serious airplane performance issues.

Given the vast array of services FBOs offer, it’s wise for FBOs to consult an attorney to ensure business operations run smoothly and regulations and compliance are followed to avoid liability. From FBO setup to FBO management to FBO representation when legal issues arise, Aero Law Center is your go-to FBO lawsuit firm.

What is an FBO?

An FBO is a term for Fixed Base Operator (FBO). Much like a private air terminal, FBOs are commercial companies given access by an airport to operate on the grounds and provide flight services, fuel and parking, and hangar space.

FBOs facilitate private jet and charter operations, and a fixed base can keep flying operations seamless with fuel, aircraft services, and a place to park or store your aircraft.

Both large and small airports use them as private and executive airports. FBOs provide a more laid-back and flexible experience, as travelers don’t need to wait in line or go through commercial air travel requirements. Comfortable amenities, more conveniences, and fewer passengers are on every flight, making FBO travel a more luxurious and private experience.

FBOs also offer personalized service and often have a lounge space with facilities like restrooms, showers, conference rooms, drinks, food, and relaxing space. FBOs are typically run by some of the best, most experienced flight crews.

FBO providers must maintain strict industry standards to prevent negligence and potential lawsuits—an area Aero Law Center can help you accomplish as a legal resource and source of support in your FBO business.

What Services Do FBOs Offer?

FBOs are the leading providers of services related to aviation, whether private or recreational flying. FBOs can be found at public airports, neighboring properties, or private companies. An FBO offers various services that focus on the maintenance of an aircraft, though it depends on the airport’s size. FBO services can include:

• Private jet charter
• Pilot instruction
• Parking
• Crop-dusting
• Aerial photography
• Aircraft rental and sales
• Air taxi services
• Conference facilities
• Pilot lounges
• Amenities like restaurants, food vending, ground transportation, and concierge
• Catering
• Sightseeing flights and tours
• Aerial advertising and surveying

Smaller and less busy airports might only offer some of the basic amenities. In comparison, larger airports with traffic likely provide a more comprehensive range of services and conveniences, such as waiting rooms, restroom facilities, in-flight catering, and other accommodations.

The Emirates Group, World Fuel Services, Swissport International Ltd., Jetex Flight Support, and BBA Aviation are examples of FBOs.

What Are the FBO Tiers?

FBOs offer many benefits for aircraft owners, charter services, and passengers using private flights for transportation. Jet owners have a place to store their aircraft safely and have access to service and maintenance between flights to protect passengers.

There are three tiers of FBOs that provide different accommodations:

• Tier-three FBOs bring in nearly $10 million in revenue annually and offer nominal services such as hangar services, fuel, and basic facilities. Tier-three FBOs cater to turboprop and piston planes and might provide flight training and limited aircraft rentals.
• Tier-two FBOs bring in nearly $25 million in revenue annually and offer fuel, facilities, hangar space, and some aircraft servicing. Tier-two FBOs cater to primarily turbine aircraft and maintenance and parts and might provide charter services, management services, and flight instruction.
• Tier-one FBOs bring in more than $25 million in revenue annually and are the most comprehensive FBOs with a full range of services, including hangar space, fuel, and facilities, OEM-certified service centers, and full-service management.

FBOs are divided into categories based on revenue. There is less than two percent of tier-one FBOs in the world, 13 percent are tier-two FBOs, and 85 percent are tier-three FBOs. FBOs can be independent and locally owned, a franchise, or a chain.

What Does an FBO Lawyer Do?

There’s no shortage of complexities and liability in running any aviation business, including an FBO. We help FBOs comply with federal and state regulations and provide proper representation when compliance and land issues arise, noise complaints, lease negotiations, vendor contracts, and litigation.

Aero Law Center works with aviation regulations, transactions, and litigation regularly. Experienced in aviation matters and complex cases, our international FBO lawsuit lawyers know the business and work to maintain your interest as an FBO.

As an FBO, you might face lawsuits, from on-premise issues such as slip and fall incidents and employee accidents to employee negligence related to maintenance, property management, flight instruction, and more. As regulatory issues arise, we also represent you in the Department of Transportation (DOT) and FAA regulation proceedings.

We help you run and manage your FBO business, comply with Federal regulations and represent you when liability issues arise. Aero Law Center is your partner in aviation business matters. Schedule a consultation and speak with our international FBO lawsuit lawyers to see how we can support your needs: 954-869-8950.