London, July 29th 2026: ALTEA, a multidisciplinary team of aviation specialists with a strong record of buying, selling, and refurbishing business jets, has released a comprehensive checklist to support business aircraft owners in selecting the right Fixed Base Operator (FBO).

In today’s increasingly complex aviation landscape, selecting the right FBO requires more than surface-level comparison. Rising operating costs, increased fuel prices, and new special-event fees have intensified the need for pricing transparency, while staffing pressures, growing fleet volumes, and increased aircraft size continue to challenge service standards across the sector.

“A quick sweep on the internet can be revealing, but this should be followed up by personal contact and recommendations where possible,” said Robin Dunlop at ALTEA. “Our checklist is designed to help owners look beyond surface-level and make wise decisions based on operational quality, transparency, and long-term value.”

Ground operations and aircraft handling remain critical factors in FBO selection. Inefficiencies can lead to delays, missed slots, and increased risk of aircraft damage. Recent incidents, including hangar fires, accidental fire foam discharge, and ground movement collisions, highlight how operational shortcomings can have significant consequences. ALTEA’s experienced team can identify these risks, many of which may not be immediately visible without specialist knowledge.

“Small operational details often point to much larger risks. Our role is to help owners identify those early, ensuring the right FBO supports both safety and operational efficiency,” adds Dunlop.

Security is another key consideration. Recent incidents, including aircraft vandalism at London Stansted Airport where perimeter security was breached, demonstrate the potential risk when appropriate measures are not in place. Without reliable safety protocols or dedicated guarding, aircraft owners face increased exposure to damage. ALTEA’s checklist and advisory services help owners assess these risks and select FBOs that meet the appropriate level of security, whether the aircraft is kept inside the hangar, or outside on the apron.

“In higher risk environments, security cannot be an afterthought. We advise owners to ensure that the right safeguards are in place before decisions are made.”

In regions with elevated security concerns or operational complexity, choosing the right FBO becomes even more critical, and experiences can vary significantly from one market to the next. US FBOs tend to prioritise efficiency, for example, while those in the Middle East accommodate longer pre-flight dwell times. Similarly, while larger FBO chains offer consistency, smaller regional operators excel through local relationships and on-the-ground expertise. ALTEA’s experts possess deep knowledge of these regional differences, helping clients select the right FBO for each location and avoid costly surprises on the ground.

ALTEA provides business aircraft owners with the clarity and confidence to navigate these key factors, reduce risk, and make informed decisions, frequently accompanying owners as they inspect facilities and look beneath the surface.

Download the press release as a PDF here.