Fixed-base operator (FBO) Signature Aviation this week broke ground on a $10 million, 22,000-square-foot hangar at Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport (KROA) in Virginia, which it said will be completed in 2027.
Signature said the new hangar’s 28-foot-high door will accommodate the “tallest generation of new jets entering service today.” A 14-bay parking lot and 3,000-square-foot office facility will accompany it.
“We’re thrilled with Signature’s commitment to building new facilities that will support the growing demand for first-class corporate aviation hangar space and services at ROA,” said Mike Stewart, president and CEO of the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission, in a statement Tuesday. “Signature’s investments reflect their confidence in the future business needs of our region and will make ROA more attractive to the aircraft owners, operators, and businesses that rely on this airport.”
Signature is also rebuilding the fuel storage facility at its Roanoke terminal. In December, it installed a self-serve avgas fuel pump.
The FBO said the hangar, office, and fuel storage projects are part of its “broader ROA investment plan” and 2024 bid to continue serving the airport. Its presence in the Blue Ridge region dates back to Piedmont Aviation in the 1950s.
“This project allows us to build on that foundation with modern infrastructure that responds directly to guest and customer demand, supports the airport’s long-term goals, and reinforces our commitment to Roanoke for years to come,” said Jim Hopkins, Signature’s senior vice president of airport relations and strategic programs.
The airport is also pursuing a range of upgrades, such as a runway extension over nearby Interstate 581. The FAA in December gave it the all-clear to explore the possibility.
Signature operates terminals at three Virginia airports in addition to Roanoke, as well as at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (KDCA) in Washington, D.C.
The FBO’s latest U.S. hub opened at Palm Beach International Airport (KPBI) in November, adding 15,700 square feet of space for aircraft, crews, and passengers.
As it continues to expand its footprint, Signature is also exploring the introduction of a new generation of electric and autonomous aircraft. This month, it participated in Beta Technologies’ electric aircraft demonstrations at Orlando International (KMCO) and Kissimmee Gateway (KISM) airports. Its agreement with Beta covers the electrification of terminals nationwide.
The FBO will also take part in a pilot program at San José Mineta International Airport (KSJC) in California, testing an air traffic management system for next-generation aircraft and drones. A similar pilot is planned for Miami Executive Airport (KTMB).
