Impressive transformation features world-class amenities
WEST CHICAGO, Ill. – DuPage Airport recently completed a two-year, $4.2 million upgrade to its passenger and crew areas, with an updated lobby, renovated restrooms, state-of-the-art crew lounges, new customer entrances and upgraded facilities for U.S. Customs.
"To meet the expectations of today's business aviation customer, an FBO must evolve, and having a world-class facility enables us to serve travelers from around the globe," explained David Bird, Executive Director of DuPage Airport Authority. "We think we now have facilities that are both comfortable and functional."
Located an hour west from downtown Chicago and minutes from major suburban business districts, DuPage Flight Center has been a Phillips 66® Aviation-branded dealer for nearly 20 years. DuPage Airport offers four active runways – including the longest runway in Chicagoland outside of O'Hare International airport – two ILS approaches and a sprawling, one million-square-foot apron.
Among the many Flight Center improvements are more comfortable passenger and crew areas, a fitness room with cardio equipment and free weights, plus an updated and improved restaurant. New pilot and crew conveniences include a kitchen and dining lounge, theater/television lounge and a quiet room with sleeping accommodations. The Flight Center continues to provide 24/7 concierge services and on-site car rental.
New Rescue/Firefighting Station
This winter, DuPage unveiled a new $1.6 million Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting (ARFF) station. The 4,700-square-foot station – located closer to the airfield for improved response – operates 24/7 and houses two ARFF vehicles including a 1,500-gallon, $600,000 Rosenbauer Panther. ARFF services are provided by trained personnel in the West Chicago Fire Protection District through an intergovernmental agreement between the two agencies.
More on the Way
An $11 million widening of DuPage Airport's primary runway is underway to provide increased crosswind capacity for aircraft operations. Scheduled for completion in 2014, the widening is projected to significantly enhance airfield capacity.
Construction is also set to begin on a new 30,000-square-foot transient hangar designed for G650/Global aircraft. An improved location offers personnel convenient proximate access, reducing aircraft tow times.
Capital improvements at DuPage are funded entirely by airport revenue. In the midst of upgrades, the DuPage Airport Authority has abated a total of $2.5 million from its tax levy since 2010, and will announce a 2014 tax levy later this year.
Home to many corporate flight departments, the airport handles more than 80,000 takeoffs annually and has had no closures due to snow in 30 years.
DuPage Flight Center participates in the WingPoints® Rewards program, which rewards fuel purchases with gift cards from leading retailers and restaurants, or pre-paid debit cards accepted at thousands of locations. Pilots, flight schedulers and others can earn double points by using a WingPoints card with their Phillips 66 Aviation credit cards.
For more, visit www.dupageflightcenter.com.