VERY PRIVATE: Chauffeured transportation operators have been part of the infrastructure at private airports for years, and it's been a great source of revenue. As air traffic gradually shifts from traditional airports over to private airports, doing business at these airports will become a bit more complicated. As the Transportation Security Agency implements its new
"security directive," there will be more regulations and driver background checks put into place. Don't be surprised to hear about
more law enforcement being tied into private airport business, either.
The point is: private airport business is an important market segment to serve, but it ain't gonna get easier. Operators are building relationships with fixed base operators (FBOs) who manage these airports, and with online booking engines that focus on these airports such as
Fortis Riders,
Savoya, and
Celebrity Jet Charter. They're also attending events put on by the
National Business Aviation Association, a major industry association for FBOs and suppliers. It's very good to stay informed, and to anticipate that this trend will require more administrative functions on your end. This is what happened at major airports during the 1970s and 1980s, and private airports will get more scrutiny, regulation, and enforcement as they become a major source of cash, congestion, and safety concerns. -- J.L.
Print | posted on Thursday, February 12, 2009 8:46 AM