AircraftOwner Online

Not long ago the future of FBOs was looking pretty rosy. Business travel was booming worldwide and aviation industry gurus predicted a robust future for FBO operations. Then the U.S. economy tanked sending  global markets sprawling. Financial woes pulled the plug first on personal airline travel, then on business travel. Airlines were an early casualty of the recession, pulling down FBOs and other support services with them.

For FBOs the recession has caused a host of headaches with decreased airplane volume being just the tip of the iceberg. The financial problems of their customers mean FBOs must cope with an increasing number of slow pays and other financial risks that affect their own cash flow. To protect their financial future, FBOs are being forced to run leaner and meaner than ever before.

For many FBOs that means a decrease in staff size and more efficient utilization of service staff. Versatile Lindy aircraft tugs can be used to easily and quickly maneuver aircraft — both with or without pants — in and out of hangers and around FBO maintenance and service facilities. The ergonomic design of Lindy aircraft tractors allows any worker, regardless of physical strength, to easily maneuver aircraft, allowing FBO operators to make maximum use of personnel. Use of electric powered Lindy aircraft tow products can also decrease FBO fuel costs.

As the nation moves slowly out of recession, airline industry experts say savvy FBO operators should prepare to compete in a more competitive business environment. Customers are expected to do more comparison pricing and even consider cheaper, less regulated  foreign FBOs for major maintenance service. In order to better manage costs and remain financially competitive, U.S. FBOs will have to offer a broader range of services, including more in-house maintenance. Using Lindy aircraft tugs can help FBOs decrease operational costs and remain competitive.