Atlantic Aviation
PE-OWNED
Acquired by Apollo Global
What PE Will Likely Do
Deferred maintenance on FBO (Fixed Base Operator) facilities including aging fuel storage systems, worn tarmac surfaces, and outdated terminal buildings with cosmetic-only 'refresh' efforts masking structural neglect
Reduction in line service staff leading to longer aircraft marshalling times, delayed fuel truck response, and pilots waiting longer on the ramp for services
Shift from full-time experienced line technicians to part-time or contract workers with reduced training on specific aircraft types and ground handling procedures
Inventory reduction of aviation fuel additives, de-icing fluids, and critical spare parts leading to stockouts during peak demand or weather events
Closure of lower-revenue FBO locations at smaller general aviation airports, concentrating operations at high-traffic hubs with reduced competition and pricing power
Expected Timeline
“0 to 6 months months”
Announcements about 'enhancing the customer experience' and 'operational excellence initiatives'; quiet implementation of new minimum fuel purchase requirements and handling fee structures; senior management departures
“6 to 12 months months”
First wave of FBO location closures in secondary markets; staff reduction announcements framed as 'right-sizing'; noticeable increase in time from landing to fueling completion; introduction of 'dynamic pricing' on fuel
“12 to 24 months months”
Visible facility deterioration: cracked ramp surfaces unrepaired, outdated interiors with only superficial cleaning, reduced hangar availability as space is leased to third parties for non-aviation revenue; pilot lounges with fewer amenities and reduced hours
“24 to 48 months months”
Industry chatter about service quality decline; increased incidents of fuel contamination or delivery delays; potential credit rating pressure from debt load; rumors of strategic alternatives or secondary sale process
“48 to 60 months months”
Potential restructuring, sale to competitor, or continuation with severely degraded service model if debt terms permit
What You Can Do
Actions
Negotiate multi-year fuel and service agreements with price locks and service-level guarantees before Apollo implements new pricing structures
Establish relationships with competing FBOs at your regular destinations as backup options, particularly independent operators or those owned by strategic aviation companies
Document baseline service metrics now: typical fueling response times, hangar availability, crew car access, and lounge amenities to measure future degradation
For flight departments and charter operators: diversify FBO relationships rather than consolidating with Atlantic Aviation loyalty programs that may become less valuable
Monitor fuel quality documentation closely; request test records and consider independent fuel testing if delays or contamination incidents increase
Alternatives
Look for family-owned or employee-owned businesses