Signature Flight Support Sets New Standard for Sustainable Aviation With Solar Energy

Signature Flight Support is the world’s largest network of fixed base operations (FBOs), providing essential services for business and private aviation across the globe. Renowned for its commitment to safety, operational excellence, and customer service, Signature is also a leader in advancing sustainability within the aviation industry. The company is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact by implementing innovative practices and pursuing ambitious sustainability goals, including LEED certification for its facilities and the adoption of clean energy solutions across its extensive network.

The Challenge

Implementing Clean Energy Across a Nationwide Aviation Network

Signature Flight Support manages a diverse portfolio of high-activity aviation facilities across multiple states. The company faced the challenge of implementing meaningful sustainability initiatives at scale, while maintaining uninterrupted, around-the-clock operations and meeting the strict regulatory requirements of the aviation industry. With facilities that must adhere to LEED certification standards and operate in close proximity to active airfields, Signature needed a partner capable of delivering clean energy solutions that would not disrupt daily activities, comply with all FAA regulations, and support its ambitious environmental goals across a geographically dispersed network.

PowerFlex’s Solution

Customized Solar Installations That Adhere to Strict Federal Regulations

INSTALLATION TYPES

Rooftop Solar
Solar Carport

INSTALLATION SIZE

4.6 MW across 11 sites

LOCATIONS

Connecticut
New Jersey
New York

ANNUAL ENERGY PRODUCTION

4.8 Million kWh

INCENTIVES

CT Zero Emissions Renewable Energy Credits (ZREC) • NJ Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) Program • NJ Training for Residential Energy Contractors (TREC) • NJ Clean Energy Program (NJCEP) • NY-SUN Program

PowerFlex partnered with Signature Flight Support to design and implement a portfolio of customized solar energy systems across 11 facilities in Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York. The 4.6-megawatt (MW) initiative included both rooftop and carport solar energy systems, each tailored to the unique operational and regulatory requirements of active aviation environments. PowerFlex expertly navigated FAA regulations, including conducting glare studies and coordinating all installation activities to avoid disruptions to Signature’s 24/7 operations. By leveraging a range of state and federal incentive programs, the project maximized financial returns while supporting Signature’s LEED certification goals and long-term sustainability strategy. The result is a scalable, multi-site solar solution that delivers nearly 4.8 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean energy annually, significantly reducing the company’s carbon footprint and setting a new benchmark for sustainable practices in the aviation industry.

Elevating Brand Value and Community Impact Through Visible Sustainability

Beyond the substantial energy and financial benefits, Signature Flight Support’s solar initiative has become a highly visible symbol of the company’s commitment to sustainability. With many installations located on rooftops and carports at busy aviation facilities, the solar arrays are seen daily by customers, employees, and visitors — reinforcing Signature’s leadership in environmental stewardship. In New Jersey alone, the company’s solar systems reduce carbon dioxide emissions by over 4 million pounds annually, the equivalent of planting more than 50,000 trees. These efforts not only help Signature achieve its net-zero carbon goals, but also enhance its reputation among investors, partners, and the broader community as a forward-thinking, responsible leader in the aviation industry.