You say you don't get the service you would like at the big airport FBOs. Do you give the boys a tip? Corporate jet guys know this helps tremendously. A 310 won't require as much attention as a Global or as much of a tip. Might help you out. I don't think the lack of attention has anything to do with what you are/are not wearing.
Regarding the uniform. I've been flying corporate worldwide for 25 years and have never worn the quasi-military pilot uniform. Dressed in business attire or golf shirts my entire career and find the crew ID badge is the only critical item. Outside N. America we always use a handling agency with escort through airports and he's the guy I give the $100 to...really helps to grease the skids.
Having said this I do notice that while my attire is the norm in the US it's out of the norm in Europe and elsewhere. I attribute this to culture more than anything else. I'm a Californian and I understand folks from other parts of the world take themselves and what they wear much more seriously.
I'm on the Global Express and turn up at some odd-ball places in the world at times. No one has ever asked me about a pilot uniform.
My theory is the guys who insist a uniform helps them are also the guys who actually enjoy wearing them. Just my experience though.
Last edited by ksjc; 10th Feb 2012 at 15:48.