This article is based on an official press release from TITAN Aerospace Insurance.

On May 6, 2026, TITAN Aerospace Insurance (TAI) announced its acquisition of Ouzel Services, Inc., a specialized aviation insurance firm based in Redding, California. This strategic acquisition marks a significant step in TAI’s ongoing efforts to expand its geographic footprint and deepen its operational expertise on the West Coast of the United States.

As part of the acquisition agreement, Ouzel Services founder Erik Everson will officially join the TAI team. According to the company’s press release, Everson will focus on delivering client-centric risk management solutions and comprehensive insurance strategies for aviation operators.

TAI, a subsidiary of TITAN Aviation Fuels headquartered in New Bern, North Carolina, has been steadily growing its national presence. The integration of Ouzel Services is expected to bolster TAI’s capabilities in handling complex insurance renewals and coverage strategies for a diverse portfolio of aviation clients.

Strategic Geographic Expansion

The acquisition of Ouzel Services highlights a deliberate westward expansion for TITAN Aerospace Insurance. Historically rooted in North Carolina, TAI has been systematically building a nationwide network to better serve aircraft owners, operators, manufacturers, and airports.

Building a Nationwide Network

According to the official announcement, this move follows a series of strategic expansions over the past two years. In August 2024, TAI, formerly known as EBCO Aviation Insurance, LLC, rebranded to align with its parent company and acquired Plimsoll Specialty Markets, an Atlanta-based wholesale broker. By June 2025, the firm opened a strategic office in Dallas, Texas, positioned between Dallas Love Field and Addison Airport.

The addition of a Redding, California-based firm provides TAI with a crucial foothold on the West Coast, allowing the brokerage to offer localized expertise to a broader segment of the U.S. aviation market.

The “Mechanic-to-Broker” Advantage

A key asset in this acquisition is the operational background of Ouzel Services founder Erik Everson. The press release notes that Everson is a third-generation aviator who brings hands-on technical experience to the insurance sector.

Deep Aviation Roots

Early in his career, Everson spent over six years with Air Shasta Rotor & Wing, working as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic Apprentice and Line Service Technician. This practical experience in helicopter operations, maintenance, and airport services provides a unique foundation for his subsequent career in aviation insurance.

Before joining TAI, Everson founded Ouzel Services, co-founded Jefferson Aviation Insurance Solutions, and served as a Commercial Insurance Broker with Jefferson Financial & Insurance Services. TAI leadership emphasized that this blend of mechanical and financial expertise is highly valued.

“The acquisition of Ouzel Services and addition of Erik to our team represents another exciting step in TAI’s continued growth. Erik’s operational aviation background, insurance expertise, and relationship-driven approach align perfectly with the values and service commitment we bring to our clients across the aviation industry,” stated Jon Downey, CEO of TITAN Aerospace Insurance, in the company release.

Broader Industry Context

TAI is currently led by CEO Jon Downey, an industry veteran with previous leadership roles at Allianz and Assured Partners Aerospace. Under his guidance, and with the backing of parent company TITAN Aviation Fuels, the brokerage has launched specialized products, including an exclusive general liability insurance program introduced in July 2025 for TITAN-branded fixed-base operators (FBOs).

AirPro News analysis

We observe that the acquisition of Ouzel Services is indicative of a broader consolidation trend within the aviation services and insurance sectors. TITAN Aviation Fuels, which the company notes boasts over 600 branded locations in the U.S. and 2,000 globally, has been aggressively expanding its portfolio. Recent moves by the parent company include the 2022 acquisition of Swiss aviation fuel reseller AKRYL and the 2025 purchase of the Multi Service Aviation Card business from U.S. Bank National Association.

By bringing specialized boutique firms like Ouzel Services under the corporate umbrella, TITAN is effectively creating a vertically integrated ecosystem. Clients purchasing fuel or utilizing TITAN-branded FBOs can now be seamlessly funneled into proprietary, specialized insurance programs. Everson’s “mechanic-to-broker” pipeline is particularly strategic, as hands-on operational experience often translates into more accurate risk assessments and stronger credibility with aviation clients.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is TITAN Aerospace Insurance?

TITAN Aerospace Insurance (TAI) is a large, privately held aviation insurance broker in the U.S., providing coverage for aircraft owners, operators, FBOs, and airports. It is a subsidiary of TITAN Aviation Fuels and was formerly known as EBCO Aviation Insurance before rebranding in August 2024.

Who is Erik Everson?

Erik Everson is the founder of Ouzel Services, Inc. He is a third-generation aviator with over six years of early-career experience as an A&P Mechanic Apprentice and Line Service Technician. He joins TAI to provide risk management and insurance strategy.

Why did TAI acquire Ouzel Services?

According to the company’s press release, the acquisition is designed to expand TAI’s aviation insurance expertise and strengthen its geographic presence on the West Coast of the United States.

Sources

• TITAN Aerospace Insurance Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Acrisure.

On March 23, 2026, Acrisure London Wholesale (ALW) officially announced the launch of a dedicated Aviation Division. According to a company press release, this strategic move aims to bolster the global fintech and insurance broker’s specialty capabilities within the London market, providing a critical link between its retail clients and complex wholesale placements.

The new division is spearheaded by Jonny Rowling, who assumed the role of Senior Vice President and Head of Aviation on March 16, 2026. Rowling brings over 15 years of industry experience to the position, having previously served as Co-Head of General Aviation and Placement Leader at Marsh, following a seven-year tenure at Lockton.

We note that this launch represents a significant step in Acrisure’s broader strategy to connect its expansive US-based retail operations with the specialized underwriting capacity of the London wholesale market.

Strategic Expansion in the London Wholesale Market

ALW operates as the wholesale arm of Acrisure, placing complex risks through Lloyd’s of London and other London company markets on behalf of intermediaries. The addition of the Aviation Division follows closely on the heels of ALW’s new Construction Division, which launched in February 2026 under the leadership of another former Lockton executive, Tom Hester.

Acrisure has experienced massive global growth over the past decade. Company data indicates revenue has surged from $38 million to nearly $5 billion over the last 11 years. Following a $2.1 billion funding round led by Bain Capital in May 2025, the brokerage reached a valuation of $32 billion and currently employs over 19,000 people across 24 countries.

Leadership and Talent Acquisition

The build-out of ALW’s specialty desks is being overseen by Managing Director Tom Quy, who emphasized the importance of bringing in specialized talent to navigate the complexities of the global aviation sector.

“Jonny’s appointment reflects our continued investment in building specialist capabilities within Acrisure London Wholesale. Aviation is a dynamic and globally connected market, and Jonny brings deep expertise and strong relationships that will enable us to develop a compelling proposition…”

Navigating a Hardening Aviation Insurance Market

The launch of ALW’s aviation desk coincides with a highly transitional and hardening period for the aviation insurance sector. According to a January 2026 landscape report by Willis Towers Watson (WTW), insurers are targeting rate increases of approximately 10% for “clean” aviation risks this year, with steeper hikes expected for distressed accounts.

Furthermore, Gallagher Specialty’s Plane Talking Q4 2025 report highlighted that 2025 was a particularly challenging year for the market. Premium adequacy has been strained by consecutive loss-making years and major incidents, including the total loss of a UPS Airlines MD-11 in November 2025. Industry data also points to soaring maintenance and repair operations (MRO) costs, which have surged by roughly 39% over the past three years due to material shortages, workforce scarcity, and exclusive original equipment manufacturer (OEM) servicing.

In addition to rising costs, the market is grappling with emerging liability challenges, including geopolitical volatility, cybersecurity threats, and technological disruptions from advanced air mobility such as drones and electric aircraft.

“I’m excited to join ALW at such a pivotal stage in its growth. The opportunity to establish and expand a dedicated aviation practice within Acrisure’s global network is an incredible opportunity. There is significant potential to deliver innovative solutions to clients across the aviation sector…”

Bridging Retail and Wholesale Operations

The new London-based division is designed to work in tandem with Acrisure Aerospace, the company’s retail aviation group. Launched in February 2024 and led by Managing Director Jason Riley, Acrisure Aerospace consolidated several partner agencies to serve direct clients domestically in the US and internationally.

By establishing a dedicated wholesale division, Acrisure aims to provide a holistic offering that covers everything from light aircraft to commercial fleets and complex aerospace placements.

“Jonny’s addition strengthens the connection between ALW’s new aviation division and Acrisure Aerospace, expanding our capabilities and bringing a more holistic aerospace offering to clients worldwide.”

AirPro News analysis

We view Acrisure’s latest expansion as a calculated effort to “close the loop” in its aviation placement process. By establishing a heavy-hitting wholesale desk in London, the world’s premier market for complex aviation risk, Acrisure can now seamlessly funnel the retail business it generates in the US directly into Lloyd’s of London. This allows the brokerage to keep more of the placement process, and the associated revenue, in-house.

Furthermore, ALW’s aggressive talent acquisition strategy, evidenced by recruiting top-tier executives from legacy brokers like Marsh and Lockton, signals a clear ambition to disrupt the London specialty market. Launching this division during a hard market is timely; with premiums rising and capacity tightening, clients are actively seeking the innovative broking solutions that Acrisure is positioning itself to provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Acrisure London Wholesale’s new division?

Acrisure London Wholesale (ALW) has launched a new specialist Aviation Division to place complex aviation risks through Lloyd’s of London and other London company markets.

Who is leading the new Aviation Division?

Jonny Rowling has been appointed as Senior Vice President and Head of Aviation. He brings over 15 years of experience, having previously held senior roles at Marsh and Lockton.

Why are aviation insurance premiums rising in 2026?

According to industry reports from WTW and Gallagher Specialty, premiums are rising due to consecutive loss-making years, major aircraft incidents in 2025, and a roughly 39% surge in maintenance and repair (MRO) costs over the past three years.

Sources:

• Acrisure Official Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Crestone Air Partners.

Introduction

In a significant move for the global aviation asset management sector, Denver-based Crestone Air Partners announced a definitive agreement to acquire Amsterdam-based Arena Aviation Capital. According to the official press release issued on March 8–9, 2026, the acquisition will create a combined entity managing over US$4 billion in aviation assets.

Crestone Air Partners, which is majority-owned by Air T, Inc. (NASDAQ: AIRT), aims to merge its strong North American presence with Arena’s established European and international footprint. The consolidation reflects a growing industry trend where asset managers are scaling up to offer comprehensive, full-lifecycle services ranging from acquisition and leasing to asset management and remarketing.

The newly combined organization will oversee a portfolio encompassing approximately 124 aircraft and 17 engines on lease globally. By integrating their operations, the two firms will support a combined workforce of over 55 employees operating across five countries, positioning the platform for aggressive international growth.

Transaction Details and Financial Scope

Purchase Price and Contingencies

According to the transaction details provided in the announcement, the cash deal is valued at an aggregate consideration exceeding $35 million. This figure remains subject to customary post-closing adjustments for debt and transaction expenses. Furthermore, the agreement outlines potential contingent payments directed to certain Arena depositary receipt holders, which are tied to collections under specified servicing agreements.

The transaction is currently subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Crestone Air Partners was advised on the deal by Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP serving as legal counsel, Kroll, LLC acting as financial advisor, and PwC handling tax matters.

Parent Company Financial Maneuvering

The acquisition is particularly notable given the financial context of Crestone’s parent company, Air T, Inc. Based on financial data accompanying the announcement, Air T currently carries a market capitalization of approximately $56.49 million alongside a total debt load of roughly $211.67 million. To support this aggressive expansion and reshape its capital structure, Air T and Crestone are reportedly in preliminary discussions to sell a minority equity stake in Crestone to a third party.

Strategic Synergies and Global Expansion

Combining Portfolios and Expertise

The strategic rationale behind the acquisition centers on complementary portfolios and expanded global reach. Arena Aviation Capital brings a highly experienced team and deep technical expertise that aligns seamlessly with Crestone’s lifecycle-focused investment strategy. Historically, Arena has operated as an “independent and unbiased” manager, meaning the firm did not hold aircraft on its own balance sheet, thereby mitigating conflicts of interest for its investors.

Following the integration, the combined organization will maintain primary offices in Denver, Amsterdam, and Dublin. To ensure localized support for airline customers and capital partners across multiple time zones, the firm will also operate satellite presences in Singapore and Buenos Aires. Crestone has stated its intention to integrate Arena’s management team into key roles to preserve institutional expertise and long-standing airline relationships.

Executives from both companies expressed optimism regarding the merger’s potential to deliver durable value to investors and airline partners alike.

“This transaction is a natural strategic fit and reflects our belief that the industry benefits from disciplined consolidation. Global coverage and scaled capital are essential to delivering durable value. Arena brings a highly respected team, with an excellent track record, strong technical capabilities, and long-standing relationships with aircraft owners and airlines.”

, Kevin Milligan, CEO and Co-Founder of Crestone Air Partners, via company press release

“For Arena, this transaction marks an important milestone following more than a decade of building the business. I am immensely proud of what my partners and our team have achieved, growing Arena into a trusted and respected aircraft lease management platform. We believe joining Crestone is the right next chapter…”

, Patrick den Elzen, CEO of Arena Aviation Capital, via company press release

Company Backgrounds

Crestone Air Partners and Air T, Inc.

Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Crestone Air Partners is a full-service aviation asset management platform that invests in commercial jet aircraft and engines on behalf of capital partners. The firm was formed in July 2022 as a spin-off from Air T’s subsidiary, Contrail Aviation Support, LLC. In August 2025, Crestone expanded its market presence by forming a major joint venture named Blue Crest Aviation Partners with funds managed by Blue Owl Capital, targeting the acquisition of mid-life commercial jet aircraft.

Its parent company, Air T, Inc., was established in 1980 and operates as a holding company with a diverse portfolio spanning overnight air cargo, aviation ground support equipment manufacturing, and commercial aircraft asset management.

Arena Aviation Capital

Founded in 2014 and headquartered in Amsterdam, Arena Aviation Capital is a full-service aircraft investment management company. The firm focuses on the complete lifecycle of acquiring and leasing used commercial aviation assets, building a reputation over the past decade as a trusted platform for investor clients.

AirPro News analysis

We observe that this acquisition highlights a broader, accelerating wave of consolidation within the aviation asset management sector. As the market for mid-to-end-of-life aircraft becomes increasingly competitive, asset managers are finding it necessary to merge in order to achieve the scale required to offer end-to-end services, from initial financing to final disassembly.

Furthermore, the financial mechanics of this deal present a fascinating study in corporate growth strategy. Air T, Inc. is operating with a significant debt burden relative to its market capitalization. By actively exploring the sale of a minority equity stake in Crestone, Air T is demonstrating a willingness to creatively manage its capital structure to fund the aggressive scaling of its most lucrative divisions. If successful, this dual approach of acquiring complementary assets while bringing in third-party equity could serve as a blueprint for other mid-sized aviation holding companies navigating a capital-intensive industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the total value of the assets managed by the combined company?
According to the press release, the newly combined entity will manage over US$4 billion in aviation assets.

How many aircraft and engines are included in the combined portfolio?
The combined portfolio encompasses approximately 124 aircraft and 17 engines currently on lease globally.

Where will the new company be headquartered?
The combined organization will maintain primary offices in Denver, Amsterdam, and Dublin, with satellite offices in Singapore and Buenos Aires.

How much is Crestone Air Partners paying for Arena Aviation Capital?
The cash deal is valued at an aggregate consideration exceeding $35 million, subject to customary post-closing adjustments, alongside potential contingent payments.

Sources:

• Crestone Air Partners Official Press Release
• Arena Aviation Capital Acquisition Announcement and Financial Research Data