During the months since Duncan Aviation's full-service FBO at Provo, Utah opened its doors, it has experienced incremental growth. The facility is now a member of the Fly Louie Alliance for Part 135 operators, which means Duncan's name is on a national registry that informs transcontinental flyers that the facility is an option for quality fuel in Provo.

“Every month since June, we've steadily increased fuel sales,” says manager of FBO services Bob Cornett. “Since opening our brand new lobby and FBO in March, we have increased our visibility, and with business aviation being as small as it is, word has spread about our high level of customer service. Combine our level of service with a world-class MRO facility and the advantages we provide customers are clear. That's why we believe we're growing.”

Cornett knows there are many other places in the area where customers can go for FBO services, and emphasises that what differentiates Duncan Aviation is the level of enthusiasm, professionalism and courtesy every member of the Provo FBO services team brings every day.

In mid-October, the Duncan full-service FBO in Provo added de-icing capabilities to its services, and team members have been through a comprehensive training programme on aircraft de-icing for Part 91 and 135 aircraft operators.

“Our de-ice truck has a 45-ft boom that gives us the ability to de-ice large cabin aircraft. It has Type I and Type IV fluid, as well as a pressurised air system that can blow off soft snow,” Cornett continues. “We apply the de-icing fluid to aircraft just prior to takeoff, and it blasts the ice and snow right off. You can see the steam rising from the plane in the frigid air.”

The Type IV de-icing fluid can be applied after Type I, and it prevents ice from forming. All four of Duncan Aviation's full-service FBOs have de-ice trucks, and they all use the same two types of de-icing chemicals.

“Our team members go through rigorous training to learn to properly apply the de-icing fluid, and we all follow the same, strict written policies and procedures, as well. This is a vital service to be able to provide through the winter for our customers, and they can be confident that we have this service to keep their aircraft in safe operating condition during winter weather,” he concludes.