Cleveland Airport board explores fuel-sales ideas: truck, longer hose, events and appointment service

Board members discussed multiple, low- to medium-cost ideas on Feb. 12 to boost fuel sales at Cleveland Municipal Airport, including a fuel truck (or leased truck), extending fuel hose length as an interim fix, weekend promotions, and community events to draw itinerant pilots.

Airport manager Eric Galindo said flight schools generally are not buying fuel at Cleveland and suggested outreach and promotions could drive more sales. Board members noted operational challenges for larger aircraft at self‑serve pumps, including a recent visit by a Pilatus that could not reach the pump with the existing hose and required staff help to reposition the airplane.

Board member Greg Modell said a fuel truck would ‘‘seriously increase’’ Jet‑A sales once operators know the service is available, but board members recognized that purchasing a truck is a significant expense and liability. Suggestions included extending pump hose length, providing full‑service Jet‑A by appointment, partnering with third parties for training or leased trucks, and staging events such as fly‑ins or food vendors to draw visiting pilots.

The board asked staff to research feasible interim options and consider longer-term investments once the airport layout plan (ALP) provides a longer‑term vision.

Next steps: staff will evaluate options—hose extension, third‑party truck leases, appointment-based full service and promotional events—and report potential costs and feasibility to the board.