Signature’s London-Luton aviation gateway can now accept many domestic animals entering the United Kingdom from abroad when traveling via private aircraft
NOVEMBER 4, 2021 – Signature Flight Support, the world’s largest network of Fixed-Base Operations (FBOs), has announced the availability of pet clearance checks at its London-Luton terminal. The new service, performed in conjunction with Animal Aircare Ltd. and London Luton Airport, enables travelers arriving via charter aircraft in the United Kingdom to be accompanied by their cat, dog, or ferret.
Animals arriving in the United Kingdom from international destinations are subject to an entry check in accordance with UK Animal & Plant Health Agency requirements. Signature and London Luton Airport have partnered with Animal Aircare Ltd., a licensed provider of pet entry checks, to perform the necessary review directly onboard an aircraft to allow for rapid, seamless onward journeys to Southeast England and beyond.
“The incorporation of pet screenings at our London-Luton FBO is illustrative of how we approach continuous improvement of the customer experience,” explained John-Angus Smith, Managing Director EMEA for Signature Flight Support. “Luton Airport’s proximity to Central London has long made it a popular choice for business and private aviation travelers, and we can now extend the same globally-renowned service to our customers’ pets.”
Simon Harley, Head of Business Development at London Luton Airport, said, “We’re delighted to open the new pet reception centre. It’s great news for our customers and yet another reason why London Luton Airport remains the UK’s premier General Aviation airport”.
UK entry checks for pets are conducted on-board an arriving aircraft and include reviewing its travel documents and confirming its identity via an embedded microchip. Checks typically take about 10 minutes, and for more complex verification needs, Animal Aircare operates a pet reception center at the airport. Screenings require 24-hour advanced notice. The service is available to aircraft charter companies holding an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) and require prior certification that Signature can assist in obtaining.
To learn more about how Signature can assist operators and passengers traveling to the United Kingdom with their pets, or to begin the operator certification process, contact Signature Flight Support London-Luton.