Throughout 2019, Signature Flight Support grew its worldwide network of Fixed Base Operations (FBOs) and handling stations through the establishment of new locations, acquisitions, and licensing agreements, culminating in the addition of services at 16 new airports in 6 countries.

“2019 has seen substantial growth for Signature in several key markets, including the Caribbean and Italy,” said Mark Johnstone, Chief Executive Officer, BBA Aviation plc and Signature Flight Support. “This growth is in line with our long-term strategy of targeted global expansion, which compliments meaningful improvements across our commercial, safety, and service programs. We anticipate continued momentum in the growth and performance of our global network through the remainder of the year and into 2020 and beyond.”

In July, Signature announced a significant expansion of its Italian operations with the inauguration of 6 aircraft handling stations throughout the country, including Bergamo (BGY), Catania (CTA), Florence (FLR), Naples (NAP), Palermo (PMO), and Pisa (PSA). Further growth followed with the addition of SAVE Venice S.p.A. to the Signature Select licensing program, adding aircraft services at the Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) and bringing Signature’s in-country portfolio to 10 locations. Additional 2019 achievements in the company’s Italian operations include the introduction of a new, purpose-built facility at the Milan-Malpensa Airport (MXP) and the certification of the Milan-Malpensa, Milan-Linate (LIN), and Rome-Ciampino (CIA) FBOs as IS-BAH Stage 1 Certified.

Pursuant to its Caribbean growth strategy, in August Signature reached an agreement to purchase the regional FBO holdings of IAM Jet Centre. The acquisition included locations in Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, and the British Virgin Islands, as well as a facility under construction in St. Lucia. Furthermore, Signature acquired IAM’s VIP suite programs, including the Trident Suite in Barbados and the St. George’s Suite in Grenada, expanding the Signature ELITE Class brand to additional locations in the Caribbean.

At the end of 2019, Signature will also assume full ownership of its FBO interest at the Cyril E. King Airport in the United States Virgin Islands, following an agreement to acquire St. Thomas Jet Center announced in 2018.