Archives: Market Intelligences

Defence Conglomerate Patria Divest’s Pilot Training Unit in 2025 to Airways Aviation

Finland – Patria has signed an agreement with Airways Aviation Group (‘Airways Aviation’) on them acquiring the entire share capital of its subsidiary Patria Pilot Training Oy (‘Patria’s Pilot Training’). As of 1 February, 2025, all employees, operations and ongoing training courses of Patria’s Pilot Training will be transferred to Airways Aviation.

Patria’s military pilot training activities will not be impacted by these changes.

Significant efforts were made to find an external successor for the operations since the change negotiations were held in Patria’s Pilot Training operations on its possible termination during 2025 in the summer of 2024. The function is mainly focused on arranging professional civilian pilot training in Pirkkala in Tampere and Vantaa, Finland and in Córdoba in Spain. These operations employ 30 people in Finland and 5 in Spain.

Airways Aviation Group with over 45 years of experience is a privately owned aviation education and training organization with its headquarters in the UAE (Dubai) and active operations in more than 10 countries in Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia-Pacific. It owns and operates one of the world’s largest fleets of training aircraft, including Europe’s largest fleet of Diamond DA40 and DA42 aircraft.

The group provides high-quality education and training pathways for Airline Pilots, Military Pilots, Cabin Crew, Ground Handlers, Aircraft Maintenance Technicians, and University-qualified Administrators and Managers, boasting a proven track record in aviation training, having successfully trained over 10,000 pilots, 14,000 cabin crew and 20,000 maintenance technicians and ground staff.

Patria’s Pilot Training operations will now be fully integrated into Airways Aviation’s global training network and will be rebranded as Airways Aviation Nordic, expanding the group’s footprint in the region.

About Patria

Patria is a modern and international defence and technology company with over 100 years of experience. Through our top-notch experts and Through life capability, Protected mobility & defence systems and Battlefield & critical systems products and services, we ensure reliable operations for our customers and serve as a partner in critical functions on land, sea and air – when if is not an option. Patria has offices in Finland, Sweden, Norway, Belgium, the Netherlands, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan.  

Source: Patria

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Global Aircraft Lessor Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Signs Definitive Agreement to Acquire Nordic Aviation Capital

Dubai, U.A.E. – Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd (“DAE”) announced the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of the Nordic Aviation Capital group of companies (“NAC” or “Nordic Aviation Capital”), an aircraft leasing company formed over 30 years ago. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

As of September 2024, NAC’s fleet comprised of 252 owned and committed assets on lease to approximately 60 airline customers in approximately 40 countries.

On a pro forma basis, DAE Capital’s fleet will comprise of approximately 750 owned, managed and committed aircraft with a total value of approximately US$22 billion on lease to approximately 170 airline customers in approximately 70 countries.

Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, commented, “We are delighted at this opportunity to add NAC’s capabilities, complementary market presence, and people to our platform. This transaction will allow us to provide more cost-effective solutions to a larger group of customers.”

The transaction will be appropriately capitalized and funded by internal resources and committed debt financing. Consequently, DAE’s leverage and funding metrics will remain comfortably within the levels consistent with DAE’s credit ratings. The transaction is subject to required regulatory approvals and approval of the shareholders of NAC Holdings Limited and is expected to be completed in the first half of 2025.

DAE was advised by Allen Overy Shearman Sterling LLP and KPMG.

About DAE
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd is a globally recognized aviation services corporation with two divisions: DAE Capital and DAE Engineering. Headquartered in Dubai, DAE serves over 170 airline customers in over 65 countries from its seven office locations in Dubai, Dublin, Amman, Singapore, Miami, New York, and Seattle.

DAE Capital is an award-winning aircraft lessor with an owned, managed, and committed fleet of approximately 500 Airbus, ATR, and Boeing aircraft with a fleet value of US$18 billion. DAE Engineering provides regional MRO services to customers in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and South Asia from its state-of-the-art facility in Amman, Jordan, accommodating up to 17 wide and narrow body aircraft. It is authorized to work on 15 aircraft types and has regulatory approval from over 25 regulators globally.

Source: Dubai Aerospace Enterprise
Photo Credit: Dubai Aerospace Enterprise

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ELITE Simulation Solutions Installs PI-135 Pro Flight Simulator at UTHM, Kuala Lumpur, to Enhance Aviation Training and Research

Zurich, Switzerland – ELITE Simulation Solutions, a leading global provider of advanced flight training solutions, is proud to announce the successful installation of its PI-135 Pro flight simulator at the Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) in Kuala Lumpur. Following an international call for tenders, UTHM selected ELITE for the superior quality and advanced features of the PI-135 Pro, which is designed to meet both educational and research objectives in the field of aviation.

The PI-135 Pro is a high-performance flight training device that offers unmatched realism for it’s class, featuring dynamic force feedback on both the rudder pedals and yoke, providing an immersive experience for pilots-in-training. The simulator is equipped with detailed flight models that replicate the handling and characteristics of real-world aircraft, allowing students to practice a wide range of flight operations, from routine procedures to emergency maneuvers.

Advanced Capabilities for Education and Research

The installation of the PI-135 Pro at UTHM further enhances the University’s commitment to providing top-tier aviation training, with the added advantage of enabling cutting-edge research. One of the standout features of the PI-135 Pro is its capability to be upgraded to FAA AATD (Advanced Aviation Training Device) level, providing a pathway for further certification and enhanced training opportunities.

Additionally, the simulator integrates seamlessly with the new ELITE Engineering Pack, enabling real-time adjustments and tuning of flight models via MATLAB. This capability supports academic research and flight dynamics analysis, making it a versatile tool for both practical training and scientific studies. Researchers can use the PI-135 Pro to explore complex aviation scenarios, validate new training methodologies, and adjust flight parameters for detailed analysis. A Strategic Investment in the Future of Aviation Education.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with ELITE Simulations in bringing the PI-135 Pro to UTHM,” said Dr. Ahmad Fadly B. Mohd Ali, Head of the Aviation Department at UTHM. “The PI-135 Pro is a powerful tool that not only elevates the quality of our pilot training programs but also provides a platform for research in aviation safety, flight performance, and technology development. ELITE’s outstanding reputation for high-quality simulators and ongoing support made them the perfect choice for this important investment.”

Global Recognition and Trusted Quality

ELITE Simulations continues to be a trusted provider of advanced flight training devices worldwide. The PI-135 Pro is part of a comprehensive range of training solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of flight schools, universities, and aviation professionals. The simulator offers exceptional versatility, supporting a broad spectrum of training applications, from basic pilot instruction to advanced flight performance analysis.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, the need for highly effective, cost effective and adaptable training tools has never been more important. ELITE’s focus on creating cutting-edge, scalable solutions ensures that institutions like UTHM are equipped with the technology they need to train the next generation of aviation professionals and conduct research.

About ELITE Simulations
ELITE Simulations is a globally recognized provider of high-quality flight simulators and training devices. With a focus on innovation, precision, and customer support, ELITE delivers state-of-the-art training solutions that meet the rigorous standards of aviation schools, universities, and commercial flight operators. From basic flight trainers to full-scale simulators, ELITE’s products are designed to enhance training outcomes and accelerate aviation research.

About Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM)
Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) is a premier public University based in Batu Pahat, Johor, Malaysia, renowned for its emphasis on research, technology, and innovation. UTHM’s Aviation Department offers advanced training in aviation and aerospace engineering, preparing students for careers in the rapidly growing global aviation sector. With a commitment to academic excellence and industry collaboration, UTHM strives to produce highly skilled professionals who will lead the future of aviation.

Source: ELITE Simulations
Photo Credit: ELITE Simulations

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Sterling Flight Training Tallahassee Receives Florida VA Approval to Accept Education Benefits for Flight Training

Tallahassee, Florida, USA – Sterling Flight Training is excited to announce that its Tallahassee location, following FAA Part 141 approval in September, is now eligible to accept VA education benefits. These benefits include the Montgomery GI Bill, Post-9/11 GI Bill, and Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E). This milestone marks a significant step forward in Sterling Flight Training’s commitment to providing top-tier flight training solutions and meeting the growing demand for skilled pilots in the region.

“This approval is a testament to our dedication to supporting our veterans and their educational goals,” said Wayne Heller, CEO and President of Sterling Flight Training. “As the nation continues to face a pilot shortage, we are thrilled to offer a pathway for veterans to leverage their benefits and pursue rewarding careers in aviation. This growth also positions our Tallahassee location as a key hub for flight training in the Southeast.”

The ability to accept VA benefits will open new doors for veterans and service members seeking comprehensive flight training programs. With its FAA Part 141 approval, Sterling Flight Training Tallahassee provides structured and efficient training paths designed to help students achieve their aviation goals, whether they aspire to become private pilots or advance to professional aviation careers.

Looking ahead, Sterling Flight Training is committed to expanding opportunities for its students. In 2025, the Tallahassee location anticipates becoming an approved flight training affiliate for Liberty University, pending final approval. This partnership will allow students to integrate their flight training with Liberty’s respected aviation degree programs, creating even more pathways to success, and maximizes military education benefits for potential students.

The Tallahassee campus is located at 3244 Capital Cir SW, Tallahassee, FL 32310, within the Tallahassee International Airport.

About Sterling Flight Training
Sterling Flight Training, a portfolio company of Wexford Capital LP, is Jacksonville’s premiere flight school, offering programs from private pilot to professional pilot. Backed by a team of airline industry veterans with more than 100 years of combined aviation experience, the Sterling team has led the training initiatives for thousands of airline pilots across the US. Students receive training they can trust with safety always top of mind. The school is FAA and VA approved, and offers degrees through both in-house training programs and university affiliations.

Source: Sterling Flight Training
Photo Credit: Sterling Flight Training

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Global Flight Training Group, Airways Aviation Group, Acquires Patria Pilot Training – Airways Aviation Nordic

Global flight training group Airways Aviation, which operates pilot training academies across Europe, the Middle East, Asia/Australia, and India, is delighted to announce the acquisition of ‘Patria Pilot Training Oy’, a Finish company dedicated to professional pilot training and until now part of state-owned Patria Group, marking an exciting new chapter for both organisations.

The Sale Purchase Agreement signed on December 30th, 2024 provisions for the transfer of full ownership of Patria Pilot Training Oy from 1 February 2025.

Operating out of Pirkkala in Tampere and Vantaa, Finland, as well as Córdoba, Spain, Patria Pilot Training is a well-established and trusted provider with a long and proud history of delivering high-quality professional EASA ATPL, Military and MPL training to a variety of B2C, B2B and B2G customers.

With a large, dedicated team of staff and contractors, a fully owned fleet of 12 Diamond Aircraft, 3 Simulators (including an Airbus A320 Level 1 FTD) positioned across Finland and Spain, Patria Pilot Training is bringing its expertise, operations and ongoing training programmes in under the wing of Airways Aviation.

The acquisition follows an expedited but extensive due diligence process bringing together an aligned vision for the future for both Patria and the Airways Aviation Groups.

Airways Aviation is a globally renowned aviation education and training provider boasting a legacy of more than 45 years in the industry.

Headquartered in Dubai, UAE, Airways Aviation operates in over 10 countries across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Australasia and brings exceptional training infrastructure including one of the world’s largest fleets of Diamond training aircraft and featuring Europe’s most extensive collection of Diamond DA40 and DA42 models.

Over its illustrious history, the group has successfully trained more than 10,000 airline pilots, 14,000 cabin crew and 20,000 maintenance technicians and ground staff.

This acquisition represents a strategic step forward for Airways Aviation as it integrates Patria Pilot Training into its global network and rebrands it as Airways Aviation Nordic.

“The acquisition of Patria Pilot Training significantly expands Airways Aviation’s presence in Europe, particularly in the Nordic region, enhancing our facilities and capacity to continue delivering best-in-class aviation education and training solutions in Europe and across our growing network. Students and industry partners alike can look forward to accessing world-class training, supported by an unrivalled global network. This collaboration underscores both Patria’s and Airways Aviation’s unwavering commitment to excellence in aviation training, and provides an enduring legacy of opportunities for the next generation of aviation professionals,” said Romy Hawatt, Founder and Chairman of Airways Aviation.

The integration of Patria Pilot Training will enable Airways Aviation to offer an even broader range of pathways for existing and aspiring airline pilots, military aviators, cabin crew, ground handlers, maintenance technicians and aviation administrators.

About Airways Aviation
With over 45 years of international experience and a growing number of education & training locations strategically positioned across Europe, the Middle East and Australia, the Airways Aviation Group boasts being the largest privately owned group of multidisciplinary aviation academies of its kind delivering first class Military and Commercial Pilot training. Our advanced education & training programs couple practical & theory techniques within courses that are designed to match the rapidly increasing demand for Military and Civil clients seeking optimum training and licensing outcomes.

About Patria Group
Patria is a modern and international defence and technology company with over 100 years of experience. Through our top-notch experts and Through life capability, Protected mobility & defence systems and Battlefield & critical systems products and services, we ensure reliable operations for our customers and serve as a partner in critical functions on land, sea and air – when if is not an option. Patria has offices in Finland, Sweden, Norway, Belgium, the Netherlands, Estonia, Latvia, and Japan. Patria is owned by the State of Finland (50.1%) and Norwegian Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace AS (49.9%). Patria owns 50% of Nammo, and together these three companies form a leading Nordic defence partnership.

Source: Airways Aviation Group
Photo Credit: Airways Aviation Group

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Australian Flight Training Group SFC Reflects on Record-Breaking 2024 and Tamworth Expansion

Sydney, Australia – Sydney Flight College (SFC Australia) has released its 2024 Yearly Recap, showcasing a year of expansion, record-breaking achievements, and strong community engagement. With milestones such as the launch of its second airbase and significant additions to its fleet and training resources, SFC has solidified its position as a leading aviation training provider in Australia.

  • Expansion and Growth:
    • Opened the Pilot Academy in Tamworth, SFC’s second Australian airbase.
    • Hosted the first Pilot Academy Open Day in Tamworth.
  • Membership and Training:
    • 773 members, with 225 new students and 167 graduates in 2024.
    • Achieved a record-breaking 20,000 flight hours during the year.
    • Operates a fleet of 40 aircraft and employs 40 instructors.
  • Fleet and Simulator Updates:
    • Added 2 Piper Archer, 1 Super Decathlon, and 2 Piper Archer LX aircraft.
    • Expanded training tools with 2 True Course VR Simulators, 2 Redbird MCX Full Motion Simulators, and 2 Redbird TD-G Simulators.
  • Community and Outreach:
    • Conducted 20 Aviation Experience Days, 60 expos, and 4 roadshows across Tamworth, Brisbane, Northern NSW, and Albury.
    • Engaged in 3,500 conversations at expos, with 465 meet-and-greets—a 13% increase compared to 2023.
    • Traveled 8,624 kilometers during roadshows and hosted 28 club events.
    • Featured 13 times in Australian media.
  • Charitable Initiatives:
    • Raised $65,000 for Angel Flight during the SFC Air Race 2024.
  • Social Media Impact:
    • Reached 9,879 followers and generated 30,325 likes on social platforms in 2024.

About Sydney Flight College (SFC Australia)
Sydney Flight College (SFC Australia) is headquartered in Bankstown, New South Wales, and is one of Australia’s premier pilot training organizations. Offering comprehensive flight training and aviation education, SFC supports students in achieving their goals in professional and recreational aviation.

Source: SFC Australia
Photo Credit: SFC Australia

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Pilot Training and Flight Equipment Supplier, Pooleys, to Attend Key Aviation Events in 2025

UK – Pooleys, a United Kingdom headquartered leading manufacturer and publisher of aviation, pilot training content and flight equipment supplier, has announced its schedule of event appearances for 2025. The company will participate in a variety of aviation and pilot training events across Europe, South Africa, and the UK to engage with industry stakeholders.

  • Event Schedule 2025:
    • 18th January – Future Pilot Skills Event, University of West London, UK
    • 21st – 22nd February – Pilot Expo, Brussels Airport, Belgium
    • 22nd February – British Gliding Association Conference, Loughborough University, UK
    • 22nd March – Pilot Careers Live, London, UK
    • 9th – 12th April – Aero Friedrichshafen, Germany
    • 3rd – 4th May – Microlight Trade Show, Popham, UK
    • 10th – 11th May – Pooleys Air Days, Compton Abbas, UK
    • 16th – 17th May – Private Flyer London, Wycombe Air Park, UK
    • 5th – 7th June – France Air Expo, Lyon Bron, France
    • 25th – 27th June – AERO South Africa, Wonderboom Airport, South Africa
    • 29th – 31st August – LAA Rally, Leicester, UK
    • TBC – Pilot Careers Live, London, UK

Note: Pooleys highlights that event dates and participation are subject to change without notice.

About Pooleys
Pooleys, headquartered in the UK, is a leading supplier of aviation equipment and training materials, serving pilots, flight schools, and aviation enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its high-quality products, Pooleys actively participates in industry events to engage with the aviation community.

Source: Pooleys

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