Glossary
FBO
An FBO, or fixed base operator, is the private terminal at an airport that handles arrivals and departures, fueling, ground services, and passenger facilities for private flights.
Why it matters
Why fbo matters
The FBO is where your private trip begins and ends. Its location, services, and handling fees affect both the experience and part of the trip cost.
Cost
How it affects cost
FBOs charge handling fees that vary by airport and facility. A single FBO field or a luxury facility costs more, while airports with competing FBOs offer more pricing variation.
Example
A quick example
At a busy airport, an operator may choose between two FBOs. One is a premium facility with a higher handling fee, the other more basic and cheaper, which changes your total even on the same route.
Related terms
Other terms to know
Common questions
What does an FBO do?
It provides the private terminal, lounge, ramp services, fueling, and ground coordination for private flights, and charges a handling fee for it.
Can I choose the FBO?
The operator usually selects it, but you can ask which FBO they use, since it affects the handling fee and the experience.
Guides that explain this
- Private Jet Airport FeesThe airport related fees on a private charter, including FBO handling, landing and ramp fees, overnight parking, and why they vary so much by location.
- What Is Included in a Private Jet CharterWhat a standard charter price typically covers, from the aircraft and crew to fuel and basic refreshments, so you know what you are actually paying for.
Calculators that use this
Last reviewed June 2026. Estimates use planning assumptions that we revisit periodically.