Tour Stop Coordinator Guide
Available in Microsoft .doc format

P.3 - Airport and FBO Relations

Unlike barnstormers of the early days of flight who landed in any available field along their path of flight, the Wings of Freedom Tour B-17 and B-24 require more than just the scant bean field for a visit. As a guideline, we need at least 5000' of runway to operate the B-17 and B-24 at an airport, but will consider shorter runways on a case-by-case basis. Don't think for a minute that the bombers won't create just as much excitement at a modern airport as opposed to a local "bean field" stop though-they can be a wonderful attraction and public relations event for the local airport community. It is important to mention that the Wings of Freedom visit will bring many people out to see the local aviation environment that may have never visited before, thus increasing traffic to FBOs, flight schools, stores and restaurants that are based at the airport. It can truly work to everyone's advantage.

Aircraft Parking: This is a very important item and in many cases is one of the hardest to define because of the size of the planes. Here are some items to remember:

• We need an area that is easy to taxi in and out of, and is not blocked at any point by other aircraft. The planes are nearly 60 years old and do not employ the best ground steering systems, so maneuvering space is a must. We recommend an area of 253' x 253' if possible (we can accommodate less if needed.
• There must be a way for the public to access the planes. The best way is a gate in the perimeter fence as it does not disrupt airport businesses within a terminal. If there must be access through a terminal, hangar, or other building, be sure that you mention how many people may be coming in at any point so they aren't surprised.
• If it is possible, ask for a parking space that has some visibility from the road to draw walk-ins to the planes. This is only a suggestion.
• The crew carries stanchions and ropes in the planes to secure the perimeter around the planes. Up to twelve crew are on site at any point and they have been trained to current TSA security standards. Personal information for badging can be provided by the Collings Foundation staff in Stow, MA upon request.

Car Parking: Normally a standard visit does not present a parking problem for cars as a relatively fast turnaround occurs with visitors, however some larger markets and weekend stops can mean crowds. Check for access roads, and parking lots with easy access as much as possible.

Named Insured: The Collings Foundation can provide on request a named insured certificate to the airport or municipality naming the host organization as additionally insured

FBO Coordination: Please talk directly with the FBO (fixed base operator) management to coordinate parking space and services for the aircraft. It is important to stress that the aircraft must have ramp space that is accessible to the public and has easy access to parking. It is important to mention that the public traffic through their facility will be great and it is a perfect time to advertise services such as flight training and charter. It also is a great public relations opportunity for the FBO and can be covered by press as a wonderful community service. Here are a few items to talk to FBO management about:

• Ramp space for parking and displaying the aircraft should be free of charge. Any charges for parking these historic aircraft would cancel out any operations revenue they would raise to keep them flying.
• The B-17 and B-24 may purchase fuel from the FBO at some point during their stay. This is completely dependant on the level of local flights and leftover fuel from past stops and therefore we cannot guarantee a fuel purchase to an FBO. If we do purchase fuel, a discount should be negotiated. We will purchase in excess of 500 gallons of 100LL AVGAS when we do purchase, thus a volume discount as a baseline. If we can work toward a $.50 per gallon discount, it is appreciated.
• As mentioned above, the FBO can be listed as named insured on our three million dollar per aircraft insurance policy.
  

Next Page: Media and Publicity
Previous Page: Community Relations

Table of Contents:

• P.1 Introduction
• P.2 Community Relations
• P.3 Airport and FBO Relations
• P.4 Media and Publicity
• P.5 Logistics
• P.6 Inbound Flights
• P.7 Aircraft Tours
• P.8 Flight Experiences and Local Flights
• P.9 During the Event
• Appendix A: Quick and Basic Checklist
• Appendix B: Key Items to Remember