Reconsidering How FBOs Operate  Changes in the fixed base
operator sector may warrant a change in the typical business
model. For years, the FBO industry has generally adopted the
same model: heavy discounts or giveaways in exchange for the
revenues that come with the accompanying sale of fuel. This
model applied to office and hangar space, as well as use of the
ramp and other facilities and services. Several years ago, the
concept of “unbundling” was introduced with equal fanfare and
resistance. Most of the resistance was tied to the fear of the
loss of the customer to the competitor that refused to go along
with this trend. As a result, it never really reached a level of
full acceptance that allowed it to meet the goals envisioned.
However, with the current state of the industry and economy, I
think it is time for many FBOs to reassess the way they run
their business.  Although there are many opportunities for
change in the traditional FBO business model, the greatest
opportunity probably lies in the handl