ATC Group Acquires PAS MRO to Expand Aerospace MRO Services

This article is based on an official press release from ATC Group and AE Industrial Partners.

On April 8, 2026, Air Transport Components (ATC Group), a prominent aerospace component maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider, announced the Acquisitions of PAS MRO. According to the official press release, the transaction is backed by ATC Group’s private equity sponsor, AE Industrial Partners, and aims to significantly expand the company’s high-value component repair capabilities.

The acquisition strategically integrates PAS MRO’s specialized bearing repair services into ATC Group’s broader portfolio. By bringing these niche capabilities in-house, ATC Group intends to create operational synergies within its Oklahoma footprint and further scale its platform to serve global airline, original equipment manufacturer (OEMs), and aftermarket customers.

Company officials noted that the integration will ensure business continuity, as ATC Group plans to retain PAS MRO’s existing leadership and team, allowing for a seamless transition without disrupting current customer operations.

Strategic Expansion in Aerospace MRO

Integrating Specialized Bearing Repair

Founded in 1998, ATC Group specializes in the repair and overhaul of components and accessories for both commercial and military air transport aircraft. The company currently operates out of state-of-the-art facilities totaling over 150,000 square feet, with primary locations in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and Gilbert, Arizona. Its operations integrate ATC Gilbert, ATC Tulsa, and Unicorp Systems, handling engineering, quality control testing, and refinishing in-house.

The addition of PAS MRO, founded in 2003, brings a highly regarded technical expertise in bearing repair. PAS MRO services a wide range of applications, including aircraft engines, airframes, accessories, Helicopters, ground power, and marine systems. Because bearings are critical, high-wear components in aviation, this specialization represents a high-value addition to ATC Group’s service offerings.

“PAS MRO is a natural fit for ATC Group. Their technical depth, customer relationships, and commitment to quality align perfectly with our platform. This acquisition allows us to broaden our capabilities while continuing to deliver the speed, reliability, and service our customers expect.”

Operational Synergies and Continuity

Strengthening the Oklahoma Aerospace Hub

Geographic proximity plays a key role in the strategic rationale behind this acquisition. PAS MRO is located in Bristow, Oklahoma, which is geographically close to ATC Group’s existing operations in Tulsa. According to the press release, this proximity is expected to create meaningful operational synergies and strengthen ATC Group’s regional footprint as a growing aerospace hub.

Furthermore, ATC Group is retaining PAS MRO’s existing team, including its President, Jim Agee. This continuity ensures that PAS MRO can tap into ATC Group’s larger infrastructure and resources while maintaining its established customer relationships.

“Joining the ATC Group marks an exciting next chapter for PAS MRO. ATC Group has built a strong reputation for operational excellence and customer focus. By combining our expertise and capabilities, we are well positioned to deliver even greater value to our customers while continuing to grow our business.”

Private Equity and Industry Consolidation

AE Industrial Partners’ Platform Strategy

The financial backing for this acquisition comes from AE Industrial Partners, a private investment firm focused on national and economic security, aerospace, and industrial services. As of December 31, 2025, the firm managed approximately $9.2 billion in assets and has completed over 155 Investments since 2015.

This acquisition highlights a textbook private equity “buy-and-build” strategy. AE Industrial Partners is utilizing ATC Group as a foundational platform, bolting on specialized, complementary businesses to create a scaled, diversified, one-stop-shop for aviation aftermarket services.

“This acquisition marks another step toward our goal of building a market-leading aviation platform delivering a suite of component and accessory repair services to meet the demands of the global installed aircraft base. By joining forces with PAS MRO, ATC has both expanded its offerings and strengthened its presence in Oklahoma to support the company’s continued growth.”

AirPro News analysis

We observe that ATC Group’s acquisition of PAS MRO is highly reflective of current macroeconomic and industry-specific trends within the global aerospace aftermarket. Ongoing OEM supply chain constraints and persistent delays in new aircraft deliveries are forcing Airlines to operate older fleets for longer durations. Consequently, this dynamic drives massive demand for specialized component repair, such as the bearing repair services provided by PAS MRO, to keep existing aircraft airworthy.

Additionally, the fragmented nature of the aviation MRO sector continues to make it a prime target for private equity consolidation. Firms are actively acquiring smaller, specialized, founder-owned shops to build robust platforms capable of negotiating larger, more comprehensive contracts with major airlines and defense contractors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What companies are involved in this acquisition?

Air Transport Components (ATC Group), backed by private equity firm AE Industrial Partners, has acquired PAS MRO, a specialized bearing repair company based in Bristow, Oklahoma.

Why is bearing repair significant in aviation?

Bearings are critical, high-wear components in aircraft engines, airframes, and accessories. Specialized repair of these parts is essential for maintaining the airworthiness of aging fleets, especially amid current supply chain shortages for new parts.

Will PAS MRO undergo leadership changes?

No. According to the press release, ATC Group is retaining PAS MRO’s existing team and leadership, including President Jim Agee, to ensure business continuity.

Sources: Business Wire: ATC Group Expands MRO Capabilities with Acquisition of PAS MRO