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Highlights

  • Mountain Air Cargo acquires Royal Aircraft Services, expanding its aircraft maintenance and repair network.
  • Royal Aircraft Services will retain its name and operational identity post-acquisition.
  • The deal supports MAC’s goal of increasing operational capacity across key aviation markets.

Mountain Air Cargo (NASDAQ: AIRT), a wholly owned subsidiary of Air T, Inc. has completed the acquisition of Royal Aircraft Services, an aircraft maintenance and repair company based in Hagerstown, Maryland. The transaction marks a step in MAC’s effort to expand its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services within the aviation sector.

Royal Aircraft Services, known for its work in aircraft maintenance and technical support, will continue to operate under its existing name following the acquisition. This approach allows the company to retain its established customer relationships and maintain service continuity, while benefiting from integration into MAC’s broader network.

Mike Bandalan, CEO of Mountain Air Cargo, noted that the acquisition supports MAC’s broader objectives. “This acquisition aligns with our mission to enhance operational efficiency and service quality for our partners,” Bandalan said. He added that the deal allows MAC to further develop its MRO services through the incorporation of Royal Aircraft Services’ technical capabilities.

Royal Aircraft Services has been managed by longtime owners Pamela and Austin Heffernan, who expressed confidence in the transition. “Partnering with Mountain Air Cargo marks an exciting new chapter for Royal Aircraft Services,” the Heffernans said in a joint statement. “With a shared focus on aviation service standards, this transition will support Royal’s continued growth and provide value to its customers and stakeholders.”

The acquisition is expected to broaden MAC’s operational footprint, giving it greater capacity to serve maintenance needs across multiple markets. By integrating Royal Aircraft Services into its operations, MAC aims to address growing demand for aircraft maintenance and support functions.

In terms of structure, the companies have confirmed that Royal Aircraft Services will maintain its current operations, staff, and location in Hagerstown. The continuity of operations is seen as a key element in maintaining service consistency during the integration process.

This deal comes amid a broader trend in the aviation industry, where operators are seeking to build in-house MRO capacity to improve cost controls and reduce reliance on third-party providers. The integration of established service providers like Royal Aircraft Services allows parent companies to respond to ongoing maintenance needs with greater flexibility and oversight.