Category: Industry News
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Why Clay Lacy’s Exit From Aircraft Management Is Actually a Masterclass in FBO Strategy
When Solairus Aviation announced its acquisition of Clay Lacy Aviation’s aircraft management and charter division—pushing Solairus’s fleet beyond 500 aircraft—the media headlines predictably focused on fleet consolidation. But for fixed-base operators, airport real estate developers, and aviation leaders, the most compelling strategic move wasn’t made by Solairus. It was made by Clay Lacy. Under the… Read more
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The Digital Lobby: Why Garmin’s New Rating Tool is a Game Changer for Your FBO
For years, the “word of mouth” reputation of an Fixed Base Operator (FBO) was built in pilot lounges, over crackling cockpit radios, and on legacy web forums. But as of this week, the feedback loop just got a lot shorter—and much more visible. As reported by AIN, Garmin has officially integrated an Airport and FBO… Read more
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The Bain/APP Deal: Why the “PE Wave” is a Wake-Up Call for the Independent Ramp
The news just hit the wire: Bain Capital has acquired APP Jet Center. With Mark Johnstone—the strategist who led Signature Aviation through its own massive growth—at the helm, this isn’t just a change in ownership for a few hangars in Manassas and Hayward. It’s a loud signal that Private Equity (PE) sees the FBO industry… Read more