Flying Private into the Twin Cities: A Guide to MSP, St. Paul Downtown and Flying Cloud FBOs
Flying private into the Twin Cities is all about saving time, and the ground transportation should match. Most private flights here use one of three airports: Minneapolis–St. Paul International (MSP), St. Paul Downtown (STP) or Flying Cloud (FCM) in Eden Prairie. Here's what to know about each one, which FBO you're likely to use, and how to make your arrival seamless.
What is an FBO?
An FBO, or fixed base operator, is the private terminal for business and charter aviation. Instead of the main commercial terminal, you arrive at a quiet lounge, often steps from your aircraft. Knowing your FBO is the single most important detail for your car service, because it tells your chauffeur exactly where to meet you.
Minneapolis–St. Paul International (MSP)
MSP handles larger business jets and international private flights. Private aviation at MSP is served by Signature Aviation, which is open around the clock and has customs on site for international arrivals. MSP is centrally located, about 15 to 20 minutes from downtown Minneapolis and downtown St. Paul in normal traffic, which makes it a good fit for trips anywhere in the metro.
St. Paul Downtown Airport (STP)
Also known as Holman Field, STP sits along the Mississippi River just across from downtown St. Paul. It's a favorite for executives with meetings in St. Paul and for anyone who wants to skip MSP's busier airspace. STP has two FBOs: Signature Aviation and St. Paul Flight Center. Downtown St. Paul is only minutes away, and downtown Minneapolis is typically about 15 to 20 minutes.
Flying Cloud Airport (FCM)
Flying Cloud, in Eden Prairie, is the go-to airport for the southwest metro. It's convenient for Edina, Minnetonka, Wayzata and Lake Minnetonka, and corporate offices in Eden Prairie and Bloomington. FBOs at Flying Cloud include Thunderbird Aviation, Premier Jet Center and Elliott Aviation.
What to expect from your chauffeur
Flight tracking. Give us your tail number and we follow your flight, so your chauffeur is ready whether you land early or late.
Waiting when you arrive. Your chauffeur is at your FBO before you land. At St. Paul Downtown, Flying Cloud and the other regional airports, we can pick you up and drop you off planeside, right at your aircraft on the tarmac. At MSP, your chauffeur meets you at the FBO.
Luggage handled. Your chauffeur loads your bags and golf clubs so you can walk straight to the vehicle.
A quiet, spotless vehicle. Chilled water, Wi-Fi and a comfortable cabin, ready for calls or a few minutes of rest.
Every leg covered. Hotel, office, dinner, a game at U.S. Bank Stadium and back to the FBO, all in one reservation, with hourly service when your schedule is full.
Tips for a smooth private arrival
Share the FBO name and tail number. Two FBOs can share one airport, so the FBO name matters as much as the airport.
Tell us if your plans change. Private schedules move. A quick message to your flight department or to us keeps your pickup on time.
Plan for customs. International private arrivals typically clear customs at MSP before continuing on.
Allow for Minnesota weather. Winter storms can delay departures or divert flights between airports. Because we track your flight, we adjust when that happens.
Book return trips early. Add your departure pickup when you book your arrival, so the trip back to the FBO is already set.
Book your private jet car service
For Sure Luxury has provided chauffeured transportation in the Twin Cities since 2012, including private flight arrivals and departures at MSP, St. Paul Downtown and Flying Cloud. Learn more about our private jet and FBO car service, or get an instant quote online anytime, 24/7. Prefer to talk? Call or text 612-888-2008 during business hours.
