How are the FBOs out there?
 

Just trying to get an idea of what can be expected on a day to day basis in fractional flying.

Is there much consistency in the FBOs you guys use? Can you expect a decent level of service on a regular basis? I worked line service at a fairly busy FBO for a few years, and we always tried to provide a high level of customer service. We didn't always get it right every time, but we worked hard to treat crews and owners right. Do you as crews enjoy most of the FBOs, or are they a crap shoot as to what kind of service you will get?

Obviously, the bigger FBOs have better facilities than the Mom and Pop operations, but that doesn't always translate into better service. My favorite is Atlantic Aviation. They always provide great service and offer a $5 rebate for the pilot per 100 gallons (doubled if you top off).

Some of the FBOs at bigger airports are just so busy that the service can't be top notch. Others seem to just have lazy people working there.

Also, money talks. When I was flying into FBO's for years as an Air Force guy, I had no idea we had trouble getting a line guy or a power cart because all the NetJets guys were handing out tips on the other side of the ramp.

Overall I've been pretty impressed. Most of the line guys seem to work pretty hard, but not all the pretty faces behind the counter have the same work ethic, IMO.

The Atlantic bucks are huge. I made over $600 with that program this year.

-NTFB

There are a few sucky ones, but there's a bunch that kick ass. Raleigh, Scotsdale, Austin, just to name a few. They're clean, nice, computer room, pilot room, lobby, etc.

Better than terminals. That's one of the biggest reasons I have 0 desire to go back to the airlines. I hate terminals, I think they're dirty, and crowed. Tag on to that TSA, yuck.

Scotsdale has the best pilot lounge I have seen. Soda fountain machine, massage chairs, lots of room, and the catering there is very good. We should sit more hot standby here.

TEB First, is probably one of the least favorite for NJA pilots. No room in the lounge when you have lots of crews hanging around sitting spare. Cheaply built.

I was recently at Atlantic JZI and the new name (formerly Mercury) hasn't helped with their level (or lack of) service, but the Atlantic bucks are a great bonus. The best FBO is Falcon Trust at Tamiami. That place is just unbelievable- movie theater, multiple lounges with pool tables, multiple big screens, a library, a workout room, sauna, full bar (not so much for us), and a beautiful desk staff that adds to the greatness of that place. Sugarland, TX is also awesome with a huge pilot area with PS3 and XBox360 and lots of amenities. FBOs just keep getting better and better and even the crummy ones are much better than airline terminals for the pilots to spend time. I've seen mainline USAirways and United crew lounges and they are crap compared to most FBOs.

Gotta love the crew cars at Millionaire: usually a new Jaguar!

I believe Tampa Jet Center even has a Hummer and BMW in addition to their Jaguar courtesy car. I also like the MillionAir movie theaters in HOU, ADS, and ALB. Does anyone know of any other MillionAir theater locations?

Didn't happen to be the one at SNA did it? I worked there last summer and on a slow day (Saturday), it was hard to keep us line guys out of the lounge. Whether it was slow or busy beyond all recognition (right before 4th of the July), I still had a lot of fun and would go back if the opportunity presented itself.

Cough, cough. Signature. Haha, I've only heard stories about their operation and whenever I've gone by, haven't seen anyone on the ramp.

I've been there too and would have to agree with you! Granted it was in a 172 so I wasn't on standby, haha. Maybe one day if I make it to NetJets.:rolleyes:

Scotsdale is the best FBO around.

TEB, new FBO, same *********y service. Its like putting lipstick on a pig