U-Fuel, a supplier of fuel stations to the aviation industry and sponsor of the Aviation Fuel Club, has introduced its “FBO in a Box” concept, aimed at lowering the cost to operate small airports.
The facility consists of a weatherproof steel enclosure that contains a self-service station for autogas, avgas and/or Jet-A and an air-conditioned FBO with restroom, small meeting room, telephone, wireless Internet, vending for food, beverages, aviation items and engine oil. Access to the facility and fuel station is secured via cards or RFID devices.
FBO IN A BOXThe system is designed to operate on low capacity120 VAC or from solar or wind power. Maintenance involves daily visits to sump the tanks, check equipment, clean and restock supplies in the pilot’s “lounge.”
The roof of the facility can double as an observation deck for visitors, according to company officials.
The recently-patented concept is an extension of U-Fuel’s self-service fueling technology, made possible by experience gained from installing systems in remote locations around the world, company officials said.
