Today at KVNY Van Nuys Airport a celebration was held for the return of customs service at the airport.  It’s been 8 years since customs was removed from local airports and centralized only at LAX.

A new US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility opened two months ago as part of the Signature Flight Support west FBO.  Signature paid around $225,000 to build the new customs addition which includes an interview room, inspection room, office space and security features.  The celebration today was attended by many local officials, airport association officials and the President of Signature Flight Support.

Local air operators, pilots and aircraft owners are happy to see international clearances return to Van Nuys.

“The addition of CBP services at VNY will add significant convenience for travelers entering the United States from abroad,” said Curt Castagna, president of the Van Nuys Airport Association, an airport tenant organization that supported the launch of customs service. “Clients will be able to fly directly to VNY without an additional stop at another airport to clear customs.”

In addition to saving private jet travelers time and money, the service will benefit the environment by reducing emissions from repositioning flights and decreasing overall operations within the Los Angeles basin’s congested airspace.  Although customs service is available at Los Angeles International Airport, regional general aviation airports have been without CBP service since 2007 when support was withdrawn.

Gina Marie Lindsey, Executive Director for Los Angeles World Airports said, “Having U.S. Customs and Border Protection Services at Van Nuys Airport is a great example of how local support can produce improved services at airports across the country. Working with our partners, Signature Flight Support and the Van Nuys Airport Association, Los Angeles’ business airport will now be even more appealing and convenient for international travelers.”