JACKSON HOLE, WYO – During a meeting in May when the Jackson Hole Airport Board decided to add a second FBO (fixed-base operator) at the airport, the board was also approached by the current FBO, Jackson Hole Aviation, about being its being open to a possible sale. At its November 1 meeting, the board opted to purchase JHA’s assets for $26 million.
“Direct interaction with general aviation users through the FBO will help strengthen lines of communication with all airport users,” stated Jim Elwood, executive director of the Jackson Hole Airport. “This communication will allow the Airport to reinforce the importance of the Airport’s and community’s values.”
According to the board, purchasing the FBO would benefit both the airport and the community. The board will oversee operations of the FBO, which will help manage its character and footprint, and control the quality and value of services provided to both general aviation and airline users.
Revenues the board receives from FBO business must be reinvested into the airport facilities and initiatives. These will include community driven ideals such as supporting additional environmental initiatives and the Fly Quiet Program, which help protect and preserve the land and airspace in and the around airport.
“The Jackson Hole Airport Board will continue to endorse initiatives that support the community, the environment and safety at the airport,” Elwood said.
The airport does not receive Teton County or Town of Jackson tax dollars. The acquisition will be financed by revenue bonds, which will be backed by FBO operating revenues. Several highly rated FBO’s throughout the country are owned and operated by the airport. At least three commercial service airports in Wyoming already own and operate their FBOs.
The deal was halted just days later, however, when Cheyenne attorney Bruce Moats filed a motion for a preliminary injunction on behalf of Wyoming Jet Center LLC.
