Compare jet fuel prices to get the best deal

The price of fuel is one of the biggest factors to consider when choosing an aviation fuel vendor. Many of your customers will seek out the cheapest fuel on the runway, and if you can't get a good price from the supplier, then you've already lost customers.

I recommend: Get price quotes from several aviation fuel suppliers. Begin by getting prices from some of the biggest names in aviation fuel, such as Texaco. Then compare them to the going rate posted on the International Air Transport Association's website to see how they stack up. Always ask about wholesale discounts and find out exactly how much fuel qualifies you for such a discount. If you run a small FBO, you may never buy enough to get your jet fuel wholesale.

Check out the perks and equipment for jet fuel systems

Once you have a few price contenders, it's time to look further into what each fuel supplier has to offer. You need someone who can deliver fuel day or night so that you never run out, and can provide fuel trucks and equipment to get the job done. Having a leased fuel truck can save you thousands over having to buy new, so do your homework before committing.

I recommend: Read the fine print and see how each fuel supplier stacks up against the others. Avfuel, for instance, has an Avlease program that lets you lease your fuel trucks so that you don't have to worry about maintenance and upkeep. Chevron has innovative ways to take fuel samples and keep the quality of your fuel high, which can save you money in the long run and help you keep your customer base.

Pick an aviation fuel supplier that works for you

Another major thing to consider when comparing jet fuel distributors is each brand name's marketing tactics. You'll find that many companies and fleets have strong brand loyalty and will go out of their way to use the same type of fuel no matter where they land. Corporate credit cards are just one way that a fuel distributor can help you get a larger customer base, so it's important to look into this segment of the distributor's business plan.

I recommend: Check out each company's credit card program to find the best one for your needs. Air BP, for example, is one of the most well-known aviation fuel companies in the world, thanks to a good marketing campaign. Phillips 66 is another company that helps match up its customers with your FBO when they're in town.