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Core access-related charges are being combined into a single price under Signature Aviation’s new Signature Access programme, which is already operating at selected locations and will be rolled out in phases over the coming months.
Developed with input from guests and operators, Signature Access bases charges on aircraft size, time on the ramp and terminal location. At Signature’s continental US locations, eligible fuel purchases entitle guests to a first-hour waiver. Optional services, such as hangar accommodation, ground power unit (GPU) and lavatory services, remain available separately.
Derek DeCross, Signature Aviation’s chief commercial officer, says: “We are grateful to the guests and operators whose perspectives helped shape Signature Access. Their feedback was instrumental in creating a clearer, more predictable pricing approach that gives guests greater visibility, flexibility and control.”
Guests can review anticipated costs before their visits using the Signature Access estimator on the company’s website, and feedback from the initial locations will help shape enhancements.
Signature is also updating its event fee approach. Beginning in 2027, the company plans to limit event fees to a small number of extraordinary-demand event categories and announce applicable locations and pricing at least 30 days in advance.
Planned 2027 event fee categories include Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles; the College Football Playoff National Championship in Las Vegas; Art Basel in Miami Beach; the US Open Tennis Championships and United Nations General Assembly in New York; and selected Formula 1 race weekends in Miami, Montreal, Austin and Las Vegas.
NBAA acting COO Dan Hubbard says: “Having clear, upfront information about pricing and services allows operators to plan ahead and make informed decisions well before an aircraft arrives at an FBO. With this new initiative, Signature Aviation appears to be taking a step toward the transparency that our operator members demand. We will continue reviewing the programme and look forward to additional feedback from operators after it has been fully implemented.”
Curt Castagna, president and CEO of the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), says: “Transparency is essential to aviation customers as it allows them to make informed decisions when choosing an aviation service provider. Signature Aviation’s focus on greater cost visibility and responsiveness to customer feedback reflects the important role innovation and communication play in providing exceptional customer service. We welcome efforts that help operators plan with confidence, while supporting the diverse services and infrastructure on which business aviation depends.”
“The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association has long supported pricing transparency across the FBO industry," said Katie Pribyl, AOPA's acting co-president. "We are hopeful the Signature Access programme will provide the transparency that pilots want and deserve. We’ll keep advocating for fair, reasonable pricing that keeps flying within reach for everyone."