And I agree with you Roger. I just wonder how many of us would prefer to top off our tanks rather then 10 gallons, for a long trip home were the fuel pricing consistent with the other local airport fueling operations. I expect as well, Signature would also build good will for us propeller planes owners/operators were they to take that broader view.
It seems to me that filling tanks for a fleet of several hundred aircraft would be more profitable, than minimum fuel orders, but I guess that’s just my business practice, not theirs.
I’m convinced that Signature does not want my business. Their pricing and fees tell me that they’d prefer I go elsewhere. I do whenever possible.
I always enjoy responding to tower or ground, whenever they ask which FBO, “Anywhere but Signature.”
Are there other local airport full serve fueling operations who are significantly less than than the discounted pricing being offered by Signature to Migration attendees?
KMKC does have a city run self serve pump, I have heard mixed reviews as to fuel availability at this fuel pump, but pricing is inline, and in some cases less, that other self serve options in the area.
They do and I know people who routinely use it on their annual trek’s to Oshkosh. It is attractively priced for the area. Always been good for them. Sort of out of my way or I would not hesitate.
Atlantic won’t be an option because of construction and the transportation set up? I’m wondering if it would be cheaper just to park at Atlantic on their ramp, pay their fee, and get fuel on the way home? I have a friend that works at Atlantic corporate. I could ping her and see if they’d like to help a bunch of Cirrus folks avoid Signature.
Actually, this thread has been very enlightening. It explains a lot.
It certainly explains, in part, our national debt.
Atlantic Aviaiton is on the other side of the field, so no, parking at Atlantic and using the COPA provided transportation to/from the Loews Hotel would not be practical.
I have no information to share about how Atlantic’s fees compare the Migration negotiated fees at Signature.
If you prefer not utilize Signature at Wheeler, and that is certainly ok, I don’t believe you will find a more economical alternative once you factor in transportation, unless you were already planning to rent a vehicle at your preferred airport/FBO.
If the fuel pricing is not agreeable to you, the most economical option may be to take on the 10 gallon minimum at Signature and then taxi over to the city pump, or as Roger suggested, make a stop at a more economical pump outside the KC metro area.
Thanks. I’m good. I’m just having fun ripping on Signature. I’m on a flight, bored. Sorry.
I’m going to take a bit of a contrarian stance.
While I prefer to avoid high cost FBOs, I don’t go out of my way to do so. And I’ve found Signature FBOs tend to provide very high quality service, albeit at a higher than average cost. But, then again, you often get what you pay for. Two of their FBOs that I often use in conjunction with Angel Flights are the facilities at Waukegan, IL (KUGN) and Rochester, MN (KRST). At both facilities the personnel go out of their way to assist the passengers with entry and egress from the aircraft, ensure their luggage is carried for them and arrange for whatever ground transport is necessary. And they always give a nice fuel discount for Angel Flights as well. At many other airports, while the people are usually friendly, the facilities are markedly inferior. They may be sufficient for a quick stop/refueling, but they are in a completely different category.
And remember, virtually all of the major FBO chains (including Signature) are open 24/7/365. While I may never need a FBO at 0300, the cost of providing round the clock service is high, and the facility needs to charge enough to cover their expenses as well as turning some profit. Since the main source of revenue is fuel sales it makes sense that their fuel will cost more than the fuel at a small, out of the way airport with minimal (if any) services, and that are often not even attended after 6PM or so. Most of the big chains also charge ramp and handling fees, but they almost always waive or discount those for light aircraft with a minimum fuel purchase.
I know that many feel the big chains would rather not service our little putt putts, but I have very rarely felt ignored or resented when I patronize Signature or Atlantic. Yes, the fuel costs more, but in the overall scheme of aircraft ownership, it really isn’t a big deal - at least to me.
I find it hard to believe Atlantic is considerably less expensive on standard pricing. Then, if you go to Atlantic, you will not get to use the busses. Or at least you are gonna have to get over to Signature, which is on the other side of the field, to use them.
Buy the 10 gallons at about 1.50 over typical best enroute pricing and get the substantial discounts that confers. Cheapest and most convenience oriented 15 bucks you are gonna spend at Migration.
The only reason I could see to do otherwise is to spend more to send a message to Signature. Like they would even notice
BAH, HUMBUG
That looks like Gordon…
I have fueled at the “City” pumps many times. I find them to be easy accessible. Depending on your route of flight KGPH will have the lowest fuel price in the area. The aforementioned will be competitive. Want some BBQ on the way in? Stop at K81, usually competitive fuel prices AND very good BBQ 50 feet from the pumps, easy in and out.
@Hondo Thank you for this information!
Dennis I thought so at first glance but it is actually Retail MINUS 1.50… It is signature after all. ha ha
For those coming into MKC on a flight plan, there is an above average chance that you will have the opportunity to practice an along track offset VNAV descent. MKC is my home drome, and it is common to get a pilot’s discretion descent and crossing restriction for 6000’, 30 miles on your present side of the airport. That call will come from Kansas City Center, and usually once you have initiated your descent, you get the hand-off to approach.
Craig