Solairus Aviation (TWY, Novato) has announced an agreement to acquire the aircraft management and charter divisions of Clay Lacy Aviation (CLY, Van Nuys) for an undisclosed sum. Upon completion of the transaction, expected in September, Solairus will operate more than 500 aircraft.
“This has little to do with size - Solairus already manages the largest fleet of managed aircraft in the United States. What matters is that this brings together two like-minded companies built on a passion for personalised service and the most forward-thinking support systems in the industry. We will work hard every day to be the best, not just the biggest,” said Dan Drohan, founder and chief executive of Solairus.
Solairus expects the merger with Clay Lacy's fleet to help manage rising costs, negotiate improved pricing, expand access, and enhance service. Solairus will remain headquartered in Petaluma, California, with offices in Los Angeles and New York.
Clay Lacy manages approximately 140 aircraft, which will join around 360 aircraft managed by Solairus across more than 100 bases in North America. Clay Lacy's Part 135 certificate comprises 51 aircraft, while Solairus' includes 144, ranging between Beech (twin turboprop)s and ultra-long-range G700, G800, and Global 7500 jets. A total of 152 aircraft fall into the large-cabin, long-range category or above.
“We know that we're putting our valued clients in good hands with Solairus,” said Brian Kirkdoffer, chairman of the board of Clay Lacy, adding that the transaction was based on shared philosophies with Solairus.
Looking ahead, Kirkdoffer said the deal will allow Clay Lacy to focus on other services. “We will continue forward as a focused aviation infrastructure platform built around FBOs, aviation real estate, and aircraft maintenance. These businesses remain strong, important, and full of opportunity, and we are excited about their potential.”
Jefferies acted as exclusive financial advisor to Clay Lacy in the transaction. Solairus has been owned by private equity firm Ancient since 2022, which also owns Burgess, a superyacht brokerage and management company.
