Business Aviation
Atlantic Aviation Expands South West with Santa Fe Jet Center Acquisition
Atlantic Aviation acquires Jet Center at Santa Fe, expanding its network and enhancing private aviation services in New Mexico.

The private aviation landscape is in a constant state of flux, driven by strategic acquisitions and network expansions. In a significant move underscoring this trend, Atlantic Aviation has broadened its footprint in the American Southwest. The company recently announced its acquisitions of Jet Center at Santa Fe, a key fixed-base operator (FBO) at Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF). This development is more than just a simple business transaction; it represents a calculated step to enhance service offerings in a region celebrated for its unique cultural and economic vibrancy.
This acquisition signals Atlantic Aviation’s intent to solidify its market position in New Mexico, making Santa Fe its third location in the state. For the private and business aviation community, this means the introduction of a major, established brand into a popular destination. Santa Fe is not just any location; it’s a hub for arts, culture, and tourism, drawing a global clientele. By planting its flag here, Atlantic Aviation is positioning itself to cater to a discerning market that values premium service and operational excellence, aligning its brand with the city’s own reputation for quality and distinction.
The integration of Jet Center into Atlantic’s network, which now exceeds 105 locations, reflects a broader industry pattern of consolidation. As major FBO providers grow, they aim to offer a consistent, high-quality experience across a wide array of destinations. This move promises to bring Atlantic’s established standards of safety, hospitality, and customer loyalty programs to a new audience, while also leveraging the modern, high-quality infrastructure already in place at the Santa Fe facility.
Strategic Expansion in a Premier Destination
The decision to acquire Jet Center at Santa Fe was not arbitrary. It aligns perfectly with Atlantic Aviation’s declared strategy of targeting FBOs that demonstrate strong market leadership and possess exceptional facilities in desirable locations. Santa Fe, known as the “cultural capital of the Southwest,” is a magnet for global visitors, boasting a world-renowned arts scene, a dynamic culinary landscape, and stunning natural beauty. This makes it a prime destination for private aviation, and consequently, a valuable addition to any FBO network.
The assets acquired are significant and modern, providing a turnkey solution for Atlantic to establish its brand presence immediately. The deal includes a recently constructed 6,200-square-foot full-service executive terminal, approximately 50,000 square feet of heated hangar space capable of accommodating ultra-long-range business jets, and a substantial 16.5 acres of ramp space. This state-of-the-art infrastructure, including a terminal built just two years ago, ensures that Atlantic can deliver its premium service experience from day one, without the need for immediate, large-scale capital investment.
The transition is designed to be seamless for customers. The location began operating under the Atlantic Aviation brand immediately following the acquisition announcement. This swift integration allows customers to promptly access the benefits of the larger network, such as the Atlantic Awards loyalty program. The focus is on blending the established local expertise of the Jet Center team with the operational standards and corporate identity that define Atlantic’s nationwide presence, ensuring a smooth and positive experience for both new and existing clients.
“At Atlantic Aviation, growth isn’t just about expanding our footprint, it’s about adding locations that reflect our commitment to excellence, safety, and the communities we serve. Santa Fe’s distinctive blend of culture, art, and hospitality aligns perfectly with our brand.” – Jeff Foland, CEO of Atlantic Aviation.
The Bigger Picture: FBO Industry Consolidation
Atlantic Aviation’s latest acquisition is a clear indicator of a persistent trend within the FBO industry: consolidation. Major players are actively seeking to expand their networks by acquiring smaller, independent operators or securing new leases at strategic airports. This strategy allows larger companies to offer a standardized and reliable service product across a multitude of destinations, which is a significant value proposition for frequent flyers, flight departments, and charter operators who prioritize consistency and predictability.
This industry-wide movement is driven by the pursuit of economies of scale, enhanced brand recognition, and the ability to implement network-wide programs, from safety protocols to customer loyalty initiatives. By bringing Jet Center at Santa Fe into its fold, Atlantic not only gains a foothold in a key market but also strengthens its overall network, making it more attractive to a broader customer base. This pattern is not unique to Atlantic; other major FBO chains are pursuing similar growth strategies, leading to a more consolidated, but also more competitive, marketplace.
For customers, this trend can bring both advantages and potential drawbacks. On one hand, it often leads to higher and more consistent service standards, modernized facilities, and access to robust loyalty programs. On the other, it can reduce competition at certain airports, potentially impacting pricing and service options. However, the focus for companies like Atlantic is on leveraging their scale to enhance the customer experience, a point emphasized by their leadership.
“This acquisition fits squarely within our strategy of identifying FBOs with strong market leadership and exceptional facilities in quality markets. Jet Center at Santa Fe’s modern terminal and hangars provide a solid foundation for us to continue building upon as we deliver the premium service experience our customers expect across our network.” – Bobby Femia, Vice President, Mergers & Acquisitions for Atlantic Aviation.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Santa Fe Aviation
The acquisition of Jet Center at Santa Fe by Atlantic Aviation marks a significant development for the private aviation sector in the Southwest. It represents a strategic alignment of a major industry player with a high-value destination, promising to bring enhanced services and a globally recognized brand to Santa Fe Regional Airport. The move is a testament to Atlantic’s focused growth strategy, which prioritizes quality markets and superior facilities to expand its ever-growing network.
Looking ahead, this integration will likely serve as a benchmark for future FBO acquisitions. As the industry continues to consolidate, the emphasis will remain on providing a seamless, premium experience across a diverse portfolio of locations. For Santa Fe, the arrival of Atlantic Aviation signals a new era of connectivity and service, reinforcing the city’s status as a premier destination for travelers from around the world and ensuring that its aviation infrastructure keeps pace with its global reputation.
FAQ
Question: What did Atlantic Aviation acquire?
Answer: Atlantic Aviation acquired Jet Center at Santa Fe, an FBO located at Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF). The acquisition includes a 6,200-sq-ft executive terminal, about 50,000 sq-ft of heated hangar space, and 16.5 acres of ramp space.
Question: How many locations does Atlantic Aviation now have?
Answer: With the addition of the Santa Fe facility, Atlantic Aviation’s network has grown to over 105 locations.
Question: Why is the Santa Fe location considered strategic?
Answer: Santa Fe is described as a “cultural capital of the Southwest,” attracting global visitors with its arts, culinary scene, and outdoor activities. This makes it a key destination for private aviation, aligning with Atlantic’s strategy of expanding into high-quality, desirable markets.
Sources
Photo Credit: Atlantic Aviation
Business Aviation
Gulfstream Opens First On-Site Customer Support Office in Singapore
Gulfstream Aerospace opened a dedicated customer support office in Singapore on June 11, 2026, staffing it with eight professionals at Jet Aviation.

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. established its first dedicated on-site Customer Support office in Singapore on June 11, 2026, embedding eight professionals at Jet Aviation’s facility to directly serve the growing Asia-Pacific business aviation market.
Announced in a company press release, the expansion builds upon Gulfstream’s existing footprint in the region. The new office aims to streamline service capabilities for operators across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, which the manufacturer identified as a leading aerospace hub with increasing flight activity.
Regional support infrastructure
The Singapore office is staffed by eight Gulfstream customer support professionals. According to the company, this team will work alongside Jet Aviation to provide localized assistance and technical guidance to operators.
Lor Izzard, senior vice president of Gulfstream Customer Support, stated that the manufacturer is seeing increased activity across Asia, making Singapore a logical location for the expansion.
“Adding this dedicated on-site team allows us to deliver a more seamless and convenient service experience for customers across the region,” Izzard said.
The manufacturer currently maintains a 5,000-square-foot (465-square-meter) distribution center in Singapore. This facility houses an estimated $70 million in dedicated spare parts inventory and fulfills 70 percent of regional parts orders.
Broader Asia-Pacific expansion strategy
The establishment of the Singapore office is part of a wider strategy to capture and support market share in the Eastern Hemisphere. Gulfstream’s broader APAC support network includes nine Field Service Representatives and three Field and Airborne Support Teams (FAST). Globally, the company operates six factory-authorized service centers and 10 authorized warranty facilities.
The customer support expansion follows a series of sales leadership appointments announced on June 8, 2026. Gulfstream named Marc Ghaly as division vice president of sales for the Europe, Middle-East, and Africa (EMEA) and APAC regions, alongside Jad Benhaïjoub as regional vice president of government sales for the same territories.
AirPro News analysis
We view Gulfstream’s decision to co-locate its customer support personnel with Jet Aviation as a practical leveraging of General Dynamics’ corporate umbrella, as both companies share the same parent organization. By embedding factory personnel directly at an established maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider, Gulfstream can offer original equipment manufacturer (OEM) oversight without the capital expenditure of building a standalone service center in a high-cost real estate market like Singapore. The concurrent restructuring of EMEA and APAC sales leadership suggests the manufacturer is positioning for a sustained sales push in the region, backed by the necessary aftermarket infrastructure to reassure prospective buyers.
Sources: Gulfstream Aerospace Corp.
Photo Credit: Gulfstream
Business Aviation
ACASS Adds BBJ2 and Legacy 650 to Kenya Fleet
ACASS expands its African managed fleet with a Kenya-based Boeing BBJ2 and Embraer Legacy 650 for global charter.

Montreal-based aviation services provider ACASS has expanded its managed fleet in Africa with the addition of a Kenya-based Boeing Business Jet 2 (BBJ2) and an Embraer Legacy 650.
Announced in a press release on June 4, 2026, the two long-range Private-Jets are registered under the San Marino Aircraft Registry (T7). Both jets will soon be available for global charter operations to support rising demand for executive, head-of-state, and large-group intercontinental travel across the region.
Fleet expansion targets African charter demand
The introduction of the BBJ2 and Legacy 650 adds significant intercontinental range and passenger capacity to the ACASS portfolio. Operating out of Kenya positions the aircraft to serve both regional and long-haul requirements for VIP clients.
ACASS Chief Executive Officer Andre Khury highlighted the strategic nature of the fleet additions in the company’s June 4 statement.
“These additions reflect both the continued demand we are seeing in Africa and our commitment to providing flexible, high-quality aircraft management and charter solutions in the region,” Khury said.
Khury also noted the company’s decades of operational experience across the continent, emphasizing a focus on adapting to the evolving requirements of its charter and management clients.
Operational transparency and registry selection
Both newly managed aircraft operate under the San Marino T7 registration. The T7 registry is frequently utilized by international business aviation operators for its regulatory efficiency and strict adherence to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety Standards.
The fleet expansion follows recent technology investments by the management firm. On February 11, 2026, ACASS integrated the MySky Spend management platform into its operations. The platform adoption was designed to increase financial transparency and streamline information access for aircraft owners.
AirPro News analysis
We view the placement of a BBJ2 and a Legacy 650 in Kenya as a calculated response to the distinct logistical realities of the African business aviation market. The continent’s vast geography and historically fragmented commercial airline networks create a strong use case for long-range, high-capacity business jets capable of direct intercontinental flights. By utilizing the San Marino registry, ACASS likely aims to streamline cross-border operations, regulatory compliance, and maintenance oversight, which can occasionally present challenges under certain local registries.
Sources: ACASS
Photo Credit: ACASS
Business Aviation
Flexjet Acquires The Jet Business, Names Varsano President
Flexjet acquires London brokerage The Jet Business, appointing founder Steve Varsano as President to strengthen fleet remarketing.

Fractional ownership provider Flexjet has acquired London-based aircraft brokerage and advisory firm The Jet Business, naming founder Steve Varsano as President of Flexjet and expanding the operator’s capabilities in whole aircraft sales and fleet lifecycle management.
Announced on June 12, 2026, the acquisitions merges The Jet Business with Flexjet’s existing FXSolutions brokerage under a unified platform. The transaction expands Flexjet’s footprint in the European market while providing the company with greater strategic control over the procurement, modernization, and remarketing of its global fleet of more than 340 aircraft.
Strategic fleet management and brokerage integration
The Jet Business will retain its brand identity and continue operating from its corporate jet showroom in London’s Mayfair district. For Flexjet, the acquisition provides an in-house mechanism to manage the transition of aging airframes out of its fractional fleet and optimize residual values.
In a press release detailing the acquisition, Flexjet Chairman Kenn Ricci emphasized the operational necessity of the deal for the company’s long-term fleet strategy.
“A core tenet of our luxury strategy is maintaining one of the youngest and most modern fleets in the industry. To do that effectively requires sophisticated capabilities around aircraft remarketing and transition planning,” Ricci stated.
Ricci added that the acquisition strengthens the company’s platform to move older aircraft out of the fleet gracefully while introducing next-generation aircraft into service for its fractional owners.
Clients of The Jet Business will gain access to a new suite of services branded as Flexjet Solutions. This offering includes aircraft operational support, pre-purchase inspections, maintenance infrastructure, Aircraft on Ground (AOG) response resources, and comprehensive aircraft management.
European expansion and leadership changes
As part of the acquisition, Steve Varsano assumes the role of President at Flexjet. Varsano has built a highly visible profile in the business aviation sector, operating a street-level showroom for corporate jets and amassing a social media audience that includes over 2.5 million followers on TikTok.
“We are well aligned in our belief that clients, at the very top of this market, are seeking far more than access to aircraft. They want trusted solutions that are designed around their needs, delivered by experts, and presented in style,” Varsano said regarding the merger.
The acquisition aligns with Flexjet’s ongoing infrastructure investments in the European market. The company recently opened a Tactical Control Center at Farnborough Airport (FAB) in the United Kingdom. Later in the summer of 2026, Flexjet plans to open a new private terminal at Farnborough, marking its largest infrastructure project outside the United States.
Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed by either party.
AirPro News analysis
We view this acquisition as a textbook example of vertical integration in the business aviation sector. Operating a fractional fleet of over 340 aircraft requires a constant, capital-intensive cycle of fleet renewal. By bringing a high-profile brokerage in-house, Flexjet secures a dedicated channel to remarket its older airframes, streamlining the transition process and keeping its core fractional fleet young. Tapping into Varsano’s extensive network of ultra-high-net-worth individuals also provides Flexjet with a direct pipeline to convert whole-aircraft buyers into fractional owners, or vice versa, depending on their changing operational needs.
Sources: Flexjet
Photo Credit: Flexjet
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