Directional Aviation Acquires Simcom

SIMCOM holdings Inc. will soon join Directional Aviation’s family of private business aviation companies that include Flexjet, Sentient Jet and Flight Options. The deal, announced last week between Directional and SIMCOM’s current owner J.W. Childs Associates, is expected to close by next month and is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. No financial terms of the transaction were disclosed. SIMCOM is believed to be the largest independent provider of flight simulator-based training services to the global general aviation, business aviation and regional airline markets. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, SIMCOM provides training services at centers in Orlando, and Scottsdale as well as the United Kingdom.

Directional Aviation’s global network and reach are expected to enhance SIMCOM’s operational stability and provide industry best practices. From fractional jet ownership to jet cards and charter, to open and closed fleets, jet remanufacturing, maintenance, aviation parts distribution centers and more, Directional brings to SIMCOM a specialized knowledge of the financial, operational and technical needs of the private aviation industry.

“Simulator-based training is a huge part of our industry, one that touches every single pilot and flight provider,” said Kenn Ricci, Principal at Directional Aviation. “We are very excited about the opportunities this will bring for SIMCOM to play a leading role in helping to hone the skills of aviators across the world.” Eric Hinson will continue to lead SIMCOM in its next period of growth and innovation as Chief Executive Officer.