FlightSafety International (FSI) has signed a definitive agreement with Acron Technologies, a portfolio company of TJC LP, to acquire its Commercial Training Solutions (CTS) business. The transaction will bring CTS’s Training Systems, Training Services, Aviation Academy and Driver Training portfolio under FlightSafety International.
The acquisition will expand FSI’s capabilities in commercial aviation training and complement its existing simulator manufacturing operations and global training network. CTS has more than 80 years of experience in commercial aviation training and simulation and has delivered more than 850 training devices during its history. More than 300 full-flight simulators supplied by CTS are currently operating worldwide. CTS has training and manufacturing facilities across the United States, United Kingdom and Thailand. Its operations support pilot and driver training systems, simulator manufacturing and airline academy programmes.
“We are thrilled to welcome CTS to FlightSafety,” said Eric Hinson, CEO, FlightSafety International. “CTS’s commercial simulation and training expertise aligns with our long-term growth strategy and will allow FlightSafety to better serve the training needs of airlines throughout the world.”
David Coward, President, CTS, said FlightSafety was well positioned to support the next stage of the business. “FlightSafety International is the ideal investor for CTS. Together, we bring complementary capabilities, deep technical expertise, and a shared commitment to delivering world-class training solutions for the commercial aviation industry,” he said. Mr Coward added that the transaction would enable CTS to invest further in training technologies, expand its global reach and provide additional value to customers while maintaining its existing service levels.
The acquisition comes amid growing demand for commercial aviation training capacity. The global commercial airline fleet is projected to grow from approximately 28,000 aircraft in 2025 to more than 50,000 aircraft by 2045, increasing demand for pilot training, simulation systems and related services.
The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions. RBC Capital Markets, LLC and Harris Williams acted as financial advisors to Acron Technologies, while Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as its legal advisor. Baker McKenzie served as legal advisor to FSI.
FlightSafety International provides professional aviation training and flight simulation systems to educational, commercial, government and military organisations. The company is marking its 75th anniversary in 2026 and operates a large fleet of full-flight simulators at training centres and locations across six continents. Its programmes serve pilots, technicians and other aviation professionals from more than 170 countries.
Acron Technologies is an aerospace and defence technology platform comprising businesses involved in avionics, connectivity, image processing, navigation and positioning, rescue and flight data services. TJC LP, formerly known as The Jordan Company, has more than 40 years of investment experience across multiple industrial and technology sectors.
