Training

UK pilot training organisation Oxford Aviation Academy has acquired Irish-based flight-crew supplier Parc Aviation through an agreement backed by financial specialist Star Capital Partners.

Terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

The acquisition expands Oxford Aviation Academy’s crew supply capabilities following its consolidation of 10 pilot-training centres previously operated by GCAT Flight Academy, Oxford Aviation Training and BAE Systems.

Parc Aviation is located in Dublin and claims to be the largest supplier of leased flight crew to carriers, with 450 pilots on contract airlines in more than 20 countries.

Oxford Aviation Academy says the acquisition will create an integrated company which has the capacity to train and supply newly-qualified as well as experienced air crew.

“Continued growth in air travel is expected to increase significantly the demand for experienced flight crew and maintenance staff to serve the plans of new and existing airlines,” it states.

“This demand is expected to be even more acute in geographical regions where experienced flight crew are in short supply.”

Parc Aviation’s brand name will be retained and the business will continue to be led by chief executive Tim Shattock.

Star Capital is the majority owner of Oxford Aviation Academy, through managed funds, and is providing the capital for the company’s expansion. Partner Paul Gough says Star is keen to support further acquisition prospects identified by the academy.

Source: flightglobal.com's sister premium news site Air Transport Intelligence news