Signature Flight Support has announced a major expansion of its European business aviation support services in Italy with the addition of six airports to its current in-country presence, which now totals nine aircraft handling stations.

Signature's expansion follows several months of preparation, including the establishment of qualified local partnerships and an exhaustive vetting process conducted by Italian aviation authorities. Existing locations at Milan-Linate (LIN), Milan-Malpensa (MXP) and Rome-Ciampino (CIA) are augmented by the addition of key airports at Bergamo (BGY), Catania (CTA), Florence (FLR), Naples (NAP), Palermo (PMO) and Pisa (PSA). Operating permits, slot acquisition and PPR approvals are added to the portfolio of handling services coordinated from Signature's 24/7 Italian operations centre at Milan-Linate airport.

The resultant ENAC certification at Bergamo's Orio Al Serio International Airport, complemented by the inauguration of a new general aviation terminal at Milan's Malpensa airport, allow for the continuation of business aviation arrivals to northern Italy during Milan-Linate's three month closure for runway construction.

“Signature has identified Italy as a key strategic market for business aircraft operations in Europe,” explains John-Angus Smith, managing director EMEA. “By adapting our business model to conform to local conditions, including our joint venture with SEA Prime and our latest handler arrangements at several Italian airports, we have developed a comprehensive support network for business aircraft operators visiting major airports throughout the country.”