After American Flyers closes its Santa Monica Airport (SMO) facility on April 15, Aeroplex Group Partners will manage the self-serve avgas fuel pump at the former American Flyers FBO on an interim basis. Aeroplex Group Partners is the consulting division of Aeroplex/Aerolease Group, which also holds a contract with the city of Santa Monica for “property management of specific airport leaseholds, as well as other airport consulting services,” according to the company. Aeroplex also owns and leases hangar facilities at other southern California airports.
“We recognize the urgent need to transition fuel operations seamlessly, so there is minimal interruption in service to the general aviation community,” said Curt Castagna, president and CEO of Aeroplex/Aerolease Group. He added that the company is evaluating the fueling operation to ensure a high level of safety and efficiency.
Atlantic Aviation also provides avgas at SMO, but its prices have generally been about $2 per gallon higher than the price at the American Flyers self-serve pumps. When American Flyers decided to leave SMO in March, Nelson Hernandez, the city’s senior advisor of airport affairs, told AIN that the city planned to solicit bids for companies to take over the American Flyers FBO.
“In the midst of the complex issues facing the airport operator, tenants and local community,” said Castagna, “we appreciate the opportunity to help ensure the safe and efficient management of Santa Monica Airport facilities.”