Market Intelligence: -Investments and Acquisitions

General Manager of New Simaero FFS Training Center Highlights Plan by Group to Invest $100 Million in India

During the Aviation India Summit and Exhibition 2024, Khushbeg Jattana – General Manager of Simaero India, a new full flight simulator (FFS) training center by global operator of FFS training center’s shared the group’s plan to invest $100 million into expanding India’s pilot training infrastructure.

“Honored to be part of a power-packed panel discussing a critical topic: How the Indian pilot training infrastructure is supporting the growth of airlines. The session brought together experienced minds:

  • Bobby Sharma, CEO of Chimes Aviation Academy
  • Ryan Van Wijk, CEO of Alt Academy
  • Romy Hawatt, Chairman of Airways Aviation

With aircraft orders reaching a record 1600, the number of pilots to be granted licenses will soon touch approximately 2000 per year. This highlights the urgent need for India to ramp up its pilot training infrastructure. I’m thrilled to share that Simaero is stepping up to meet this challenge by setting up a state-of-the-art simulator facility near Delhi Airport with an initial investment of $100 million.

A big thank you to Maximilian Buerger for moderating such a brilliant discussion and highlighting the key points for the growth of our pilot training infrastructure.” shared Khushbeg Jattana, General Manager of Simaero India

Simaero India is currently constructing an 8 bay full flight simulator training center in New Delhi which is set to open in 2024.

Source: Simaero India

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World’s Largest ACMI Provider and Aviation Conglomerate Avia Solutions Group Issues $300 Million Worth of New Bonds

Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI provider (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) services and owner of global pilot training group BAA Training, announced that it has has successfully issued $300 million in senior unsecured bonds with a tenure of 5 years at a rate of 9.75%. This issuance includes the refinancing of a previous bond issue that had an outstanding balance of $180 million. The surplus funds will be allocated towards the Group’s strategic business development initiatives. Citibank and Morgan Stanley served as joint bookrunners for the transaction.

The demand for the bonds strongly exceeded the supply by almost 2 times. Investors from all over the world invested in the bonds, including some of the largest funds and asset managers from the US, Europe, and Asia.

“The successful bond issue is clear proof of investor confidence in the Group and its growth potential. We will use the funds raised to further expand our aviation group globally and continue to invest in our fleet capacity, thus strengthening our leading position in the market,” says Jonas Janukenas, CEO of Avia Solutions Group.

Avia Solutions Group is the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) services group operating a fleet of 212 aircraft. In 2023, the Group’s net profit grew by 5.5 times to €68.2 million, adjusted EBITDA by 36% to €392 million, and revenue by 22% to €2.3 billion.

The Group is a parent company to over 100 subsidiaries providing a range of aviation services including MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), pilot and crew training, and ground handling, among others. Avia Solutions Group is supported by 12,000 highly skilled aviation professionals.

Source: Avia Solutions Group

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New Zealand Pilot Training Organisations Acquire Web-Based Training Course Developer and Content Library

In collaboration, New Zealand based pilot training organisations Stoneybrook Training and Ardmore Flying School are pleased to announce their acquisition of Contract Aircrew Training Ltd industry training courses. This strategic move ensures the continuing provision of learning opportunities for the aviation industry – from individual staff, training schools, to charter operators, scheduled airlines and freight operations. Stoneybrook Training and Ardmore Flying School, will leverage Contract Aircrew Training’s expertise to strengthen its position as a leader in aviation education.

About Stoneybrook Training: A Record of Excellence Since 2002

Stoneybrook Training takes pride in delivering superior Pilot Theory Courses that are comprehensively researched and constantly evolving to meet the latest requirements. Their aeroplane and helicopter courses provide all necessary NZCAA subject material without the unnecessary bells and whistles. The new Industry Courses will integrate with the current offerings under the Ardmore Flying School Part 141 Training certificate.

About Ardmore Flying School: Excellence in pilot training since 1961

Ardmore Flying School has been a leader in pilot training for over 60 years, renowned for its commitment to excellence. The school is globally recognised for maintaining high standards in its flight training programs, providing students with a solid foundation in aviation theory and essential pilot skills. With international acclaim having trained over 22,000 students, Ardmore Flying School attracts students worldwide, preparing graduates to be skilled and confident pilots for both airlines and commercial aviation. The school’s lasting legacy and dedication to excellence contribute to shaping the future of the aviation industry.

About Contract Aircrew Training

Contract Aircrew Training (Conair) is recognised for courses approved by regulatory bodies like NZCAA, CASA, CAAF etc. Conair’s courses cover diverse areas such as Aviation Security Awareness, Crew Resource Management (CRM), Dangerous Goods Awareness, Extended Diversion Time Operations (EDTO), Human Factors for various roles, Noise Abatement Awareness, and specialised briefs for specific airports.

Conair’s courses are designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of aviation professionals, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and fostering a high standard of safety within the industry. With a commitment to providing quality training, Conair’s courses are accessible online, allowing participants to conveniently engage in learning and stay updated with industry standards. The transition will be seamless for existing Contract Aircrew customers, ensuring they continue to benefit from high standards of instruction.

Meet the Team at Stoneybrook Training

Ian Matheson – Founder

Ian Matheson established Stoneybrook Training in 2002, responding to the need for ATPL law lectures for Air New Zealand’s contract pilots from the United Kingdom. With over thirty years in the aviation industry, Ian brings a wealth of experience as an instructor, air ambulance pilot, corporate pilot, and commercial pilot. His flight log boasts over 14,000 hours, covering both corporate jets and commercial airliners. Ian has come full circle having commenced his career as the Ground School Supervisor at AFS.

Alastair Bax – Retired Boeing 737 Check and Training Captain, Director Aviation Data Services Ltd

Alastair Bax is a retired Boeing 737 Check and training captain with over 40 years experience and 23,000 hours flying. Al started his career as a flying instructor (Cat B and D) and charter pilot, then flew multi engine IFR for a third level airline before joining Ansett in 1988. He has been involved in classroom teaching at various times over the years and has built many web based courses for airline staff. Al spent the last few years in the airline industry as a Simulator Check Captain.

“This acquisition underscores our dedication to offering top-notch aviation education. By combining the strengths of Stoneybrook Training, Ardmore Flying School, and Contract Aircrew Training, we aim to provide an even broader range of courses to meet the evolving needs of the aviation industry,” said Ian Matheson, Founder of Stoneybrook Training.

“For current Conair course enrollees, rest assured that our commitment to excellence remains unwavering. Your learning journey is crucial to us, and we are dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition with continued access to quality aviation education,” added Matheson.

Individuals and organisations interested in aviation training can explore the enhanced course offerings resulting from this collaboration on both organizations. Stoneybrook Training and Ardmore Flying School welcome inquiries from prospective students, training organisations, and industry partners.

Source: Stoneybrook Training
Photo Credit: Stoneybrook Training

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