This article is based on an official press release from Citadel Aviation.

Citadel Aviation Secures 13 VIP Projects in January, Pushing Connectivity Focus

Citadel Aviation, the Lake Charles-based maintenance and completions provider formerly known as Citadel Completions, has announced a significant surge in activity to begin the 2026 fiscal year. According to a company press release issued on January 16, the firm secured 13 new VIP Private-Jets projects in the month of January alone. This influx of Contracts follows closely on the heels of the company’s strategic rebranding on January 9, signaling a renewed focus on advanced technology integration alongside its traditional luxury interior services.

The newly awarded projects encompass a mix of elite, privatized narrow-body and wide-body commercial-sized aircraft. The company stated that the scope of work for these contracts emphasizes high-speed connectivity upgrades and Avionics modernization, reflecting a broader industry trend where in-flight data speeds are becoming as critical as cabin comfort.

Focus on Connectivity and Starlink Integration

A central pillar of Citadel Aviation’s 2026 strategy involves the deployment of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology. The company confirmed in its announcement that it is acting as an authorized dealer for Starlink Business Aviation products. Unlike legacy Geostationary (GEO) systems, the Starlink integration allows for high-speed internet (up to 220 Mbps) with low latency (under 20ms), enabling capabilities such as 4K streaming and real-time video conferencing that were previously challenging on private aircraft.

The 13 new projects reportedly involve the installation of these satellite terminals on fuselage exteriors, as well as upgrades to cabin management systems. The aircraft slated for these modifications include major commercial platforms often converted for VVIP use, such as the Boeing 737, 747, and 777, as well as the Airbus A320, A330, and A350 families.

Operational Expansion and Support

Beyond the installation of connectivity suites, Citadel Aviation is expanding its maintenance capabilities. The press release highlights an enhancement of the company’s Aircraft on Ground (AOG) support services, which now include 24/7 mobile repair teams designed to minimize downtime for clients.

Noel Christen, Vice President of Operations at Citadel Aviation, commented on the company’s rapid start to the year in the official statement:

“Starting the year with such strong momentum highlights our team’s exceptional technical expertise and the trust our clients place in us. Aligned with our CEO Greg Colgan’s vision, we are dedicated to transforming the industry by combining unmatched technical proficiency with earned credibility, built on transparency and a highly personalized customer experience.”

Facility Capabilities and Rebranding Context

These new contracts will be executed at Citadel Aviation’s headquarters at Chennault International Airport (KCWF) in Louisiana. The facility features 260,000 square feet of hangar and industrial space and utilizes a 10,700-foot runway capable of accommodating the largest aircraft in operation, including the Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A380.

The surge in business validates the company’s recent pivot. Founded in 2018 by the late Sheldon G. Adelson and his family, the company operated as Citadel Completions until its rebranding earlier this month. Under the leadership of CEO Greg Colgan, the firm has moved to position itself as a full-service provider that integrates Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) with high-tech engineering solutions.

AirPro News Analysis

The announcement of 13 simultaneous projects for a single facility in one month is a notable indicator of the health of the VVIP aftermarket sector. Specifically, it underscores the “Connected Cabin” revolution. As Ultra-High-Net-Worth Individuals (UHNWIs) and heads of state increasingly treat their aircraft as flying offices, the tolerance for sub-par internet connectivity has evaporated.

Citadel’s aggressive move to secure authorized dealer status for Starlink places it in a competitive position against other major completion centers like Jet Aviation and Lufthansa Technik. By prioritizing LEO satellite installations on large commercial airframes, Citadel is addressing a specific bottleneck in the market: owners of large VIP airliners who require terrestrial-grade bandwidth to maintain operations while airborne.

Frequently Asked Questions

• When did Citadel Aviation rebrand? The company officially rebranded from Citadel Completions to Citadel Aviation on January 9, 2026.
• What aircraft does Citadel Aviation service? They service large commercial-sized aircraft for private use, including Boeing (737, 747, 777) and Airbus (A320, A330, A350) models.
• What is the significance of the Starlink partnership? As an authorized dealer, Citadel can install LEO satellite systems that provide high-speed, low-latency internet suitable for streaming and video calls globally.

Sources

• PR Newswire
• Citadel Aviation

This article is based on an official press release from The Blackhawk Group.

The Blackhawk Group Expands to Alaska with Acquisition of Silver Sky Aviation

On January 7, 2026, The Blackhawk Group (TBG) officially announced the acquisition of Silver Sky Aviation, a specialized maintenance and service provider located in Wasilla, Alaska. This strategic move establishes TBG’s sixth Performance Center and marks its first physical entry into the Alaskan market, a region globally recognized for its heavy reliance on high-performance turboprop aircraft.

According to the company’s press release, Silver Sky Aviation will transition to operate as a Blackhawk Performance Center. The facility, based at Wolf Lake Airport (4AK6), joins an existing network of centers across the United States, including locations in Texas, Missouri, Colorado, Arizona, and California. The acquisition aims to integrate Silver Sky’s local maintenance expertise with Blackhawk’s global resources, specifically targeting operators who face the unique and demanding flight conditions of the “Last Frontier.”

Strategic Expansion into a Critical Turboprop Market

The decision to expand into Alaska addresses a specific logistical reality: aviation is a necessity rather than a luxury for much of the state. Industry data indicates that over 80% of Alaskan communities are not connected by the road system, making air travel the primary method for cargo transport, medical evacuation, and passenger travel.

In the official announcement, The Blackhawk Group noted that the region is a “lifeline” market for turboprop airframes, particularly the Cessna Caravan, King Air, and Pilatus PC-12. These aircraft serve as the workhorses of the Alaskan economy, which benefits from an estimated $3.8 billion annual contribution from the aviation sector.

By establishing a Performance Center in Wasilla, TBG intends to offer local operators faster access to maintenance and upgrades. Previously, major performance upgrades often required ferrying aircraft to the “Lower 48” states, incurring significant downtime and expense. The new center allows for factory-level support directly within the region.

Enhancing Performance for Rugged Conditions

The acquisition aligns with Blackhawk’s core competency: engine upgrades that enhance safety and performance margins. Alaskan pilots frequently operate on short, unimproved gravel runways and must contend with severe icing conditions and mountainous terrain.

Blackhawk’s XP Engine+ Upgrades are designed to address these specific challenges. For example, the XP140 upgrade for the Cessna Caravan increases shaft horsepower (SHP) from 675 to 867. According to performance metrics cited in the research accompanying the announcement, this power increase can reduce takeoff distances by 20-30% and improve climb rates by 40-60%. Such improvements are critical for pilots needing to clear terrain quickly or depart from short strips with heavy loads.

Leadership Perspectives

Both companies emphasized the cultural and operational fit of the acquisition. Chad Cundiff, CEO of The Blackhawk Group, highlighted the necessity of high performance in the region.

“Turboprops are a lifeline for operators in the region… Silver Sky’s reputation for technical expertise, customer support, and operational excellence, combined with the resources of The Blackhawk Group, will accelerate capability expansion.”

, Chad Cundiff, CEO of The Blackhawk Group

Aaron McCarty, the founder of Silver Sky Aviation who established the company in 2014, expressed optimism about the future of the facility under the TBG banner.

“Joining The Blackhawk Group allows us to expand our capabilities… and create new opportunities and benefits for our team while maintaining our focus on safety and reliability.”

, Aaron McCarty, Founder of Silver Sky Aviation

AirPro News Analysis

Consolidating the “Bush” Aviation Aftermarket

This Acquisitions signals a maturing of the aftermarket support landscape for utility aviation. The Blackhawk Group, a portfolio company of New State Capital Partners formed in 2022, has been aggressively consolidating specialized aviation service providers. By acquiring Silver Sky, TBG is not just buying a facility; they are capturing a captive audience.

Alaska represents one of the highest concentrations of turboprop utilization in the world. Operators there prioritize reliability and takeoff performance over almost all other metrics. By placing the source of those upgrades, specifically the XP engine series, directly in the local market, TBG effectively shortens the supply chain. We anticipate this will lead to a higher adoption rate of engine upgrades among commercial operators in the region who previously may have hesitated due to the logistics of installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the new Blackhawk Performance Center located?

The new center is located at Wolf Lake Airports (4AK6) in Wasilla, Alaska, at the facility formerly operated by Silver Sky Aviation.

What services will be available at this location?

The location will continue to offer maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services and will now serve as a direct installation center for Blackhawk’s engine upgrades, including those for the Cessna Caravan and King Air series.

Does this affect Silver Sky Aviation’s existing certifications?

Silver Sky was already an Authorized Service Center for the Cessna Caravan and Daher Kodiak. The press release indicates that the local team and capabilities will be retained and expanded, implying these certifications will remain central to their operations.

Sources

• PR Newswire (The Blackhawk Group)

This article is based on an official press release from TransDigm Group Incorporated.

On January 16, 2026, TransDigm Group Incorporated (NYSE: TDG) announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquisitions two aerospace aftermarket companies, Jet Parts Engineering and Victor Sierra Aviation Holdings, from private equity firm Vance Street Capital. The transaction is valued at approximately $2.2 billion in cash.

According to the company’s announcement, the strategy aligns with TransDigm’s long-standing strategy of consolidating proprietary aerospace component manufacturers with strong aftermarket revenue streams. The deal is expected to be funded through existing cash on hand, as of September 30, 2025, TransDigm reported holding approximately $2.8 billion in liquidity.

Transaction Details and Financial Impact

The acquisition includes two distinct entities that collectively generated approximately $280 million in revenue for the calendar year ending December 31, 2025. TransDigm stated that the purchase price includes certain tax benefits, though specific EBITDA multiples were not disclosed in the initial release.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals in the United States. Upon closing, both acquired companies will be integrated into TransDigm’s decentralized business model, where subsidiaries typically operate as independent units.

Profile of Acquired Entities

Both Jet Parts Engineering (JPE) and Victor Sierra Aviation Holdings (VSA) specialize in Parts Manufacturer Approval (PMA) components. These are FAA-approved alternatives to original equipment OEMs, a sector known for high margins and cost-efficiency for operators.

Jet Parts Engineering (JPE)

Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, JPE employs approximately 300 people. The company focuses on proprietary PMA parts and engineered repair solutions (DER repairs) for commercial, regional, and cargo airlines. Their portfolio includes replacement components for propulsion, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems.

Victor Sierra Aviation Holdings (VSA)

Based in Baldwin City, Kansas, VSA employs roughly 400 staff and operates as a holding company for several general and business aviation brands. Key subsidiaries under the VSA umbrella include:

• McFarlane Aviation: A provider of general aviation replacement parts such as cables and engine controls.
• Tempest Aero Group: Specialists in ignition and filtration systems.
• Aviation Products Systems: Suppliers of wheel and brake components.

AirPro News Analysis

This acquisition underscores TransDigm’s continued aggressive capital deployment in the post-2025 aerospace market. By targeting companies with nearly 100% aftermarket revenue, TransDigm is reinforcing its defensive moat, aftermarket parts are historically more recession-resilient than OEM Manufacturing.

The deal follows closely on the heels of TransDigm’s late 2025 agreement to acquire Stellant Systems for $960 million. The market reaction appears favorable, with TDG shares trading up approximately 1.7% following the news, suggesting investor confidence in the company’s ability to integrate these high-margin assets effectively.

Sources:

• TransDigm Group (PRNewswire)
• Benzinga Financial News
• Morningstar