Signature Aviation, the world’s largest network of fixed-base operators (FBOs), has acquired the TAC Air division of TAC – The Arnold Companies. Through the acquisition, 13 TAC Air locations, plus one other Scottsdale location that offers hangarage, will rebrand and join the Signature network.

The acquisition marks Signature’s entry into 11 new markets within the heartland of the United States including Salt Lake City, Utah; Lexington, Kentucky; Buffalo, New York; and Knoxville, Tennessee. Signature’s on-site presence at Denver Centennial airport in Colorado and Dallas Love Field in Texas is further expanded through supplemental facilities, representing the company’s second and fourth FBO terminals at those airports, respectively. In addition, Signature will assume ownership of the TAC Private Hangars complex at the Scottsdale airport in Arizona.

Following a transition period, aircraft operators and passengers will be able to take advantage of Signature’s loyalty offerings, including the Signature TailWins point awards programme and Signature Status operator loyalty benefits. In addition, customers currently based at a TAC Air FBO may choose to enroll in the Signature Resident Premier programme, offering discounted prices and complimentary services throughout Signature’s growing worldwide network to those who call a Signature FBO their home.

Signature is welcoming TAC Air team members employed throughout its FBOs, building their existing aviation operational skillsets through the company’s proprietary customer service and safety curriculum, as well as extending opportunities within the organisation’s fast-track management training initiatives. Furthermore, the locations will be inducted into the Signature Renew programme, extending environmental and sustainability accountability and strategies to the former TAC Air network with the commonly shared objective of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“TAC Air is an example of home-grown success, and we’re delighted to share in the storied heritage of TAC Air while embracing its over 600 employees within the Signature team,” says Signature chief executive officer Tony Lefebvre. “We aim to build on the exceptional staff and impressive network of TAC Air, generating greater value and care for private aviation travellers in the most desirable locations.”

Greg Arnold, chairman and CEO of TAC Air and TAC Private Hangars adds: “From the time we entered the aviation FBO business in 1986 in Texarkana, we focused on providing the best aviation ground services in the industry. We are proud of what we have accomplished together these past 36 years. This commitment continues as the TAC associates become a part of the highly successful organisation that is Signature Aviation.”

Signature will begin to transition TAC Air locations into the Signature network with immediate effect, with full integration and programme support anticipated by the end of 2022. Three original TAC Air FBO locations (BDL, OMA and RDU) were not included in the acquisition and were divested to Atlantic Aviation.