West Star Aviation (West Star), a portfolio company of The Sterling Group, has acquired Jet East. West Star is a provider of maintenance, repair, and overhaul ("MRO") services to the business aviation industry providing maintenance, modification, and other services to aviation customers. Jet East provides MRO services as well and focuses on supporting fractional and managed fleet operators. Capabilities include an expansive Aircraft on Ground (AOG) mobile repair technician network, line maintenance operations, heavy maintenance facilities, and other complementary services.
"I'm extremely happy to welcome the Jet East employees to West Star. Both West Star and Jet East are remarkable companies with strong and unique cultures," said Jim Rankin, CEO of West Star Aviation. "I'm looking forward to bringing the Jet East and West Star teams together as we build the premier Business Aviation Maintenance provider in the industry. Our focus now is to use this combination to better serve our customers and support our employees."
"With the official close, we are provided a unique opportunity to enhance our capabilities and expand our offerings to better serve the needs of the aviation industry. As we turn our attention toward the exciting task of strategic integration, we remain committed to our customers so there is no disruption to the service that we provide. I am proud of what has been accomplished and excited about the future," said Stephen Maiden, CEO of Jet East.
Latham & Watkins served as legal counsel and Jefferies served as a financial advisor to West Star.