World Kinect, the parent company of World Fuel Services, announced a blockbuster acquisition today with an agreement to purchase Universal Weather and Aviation’s trip support services (TSS) division. According to the company, the deal—expected to close by year-end—is worth approximately $220 million and will include the Universal Weather and Aviation brand name, as well as the agreements Universal has made with third-party ground handlers around the world.
“We’re excited to announce the agreement to acquire Universal Weather’s TSS division, which will significantly expand our trip support services business,” said World Kinect COO John Rau. “This strategic move complements our fuel business and enhances our ability to deliver comprehensive flight operations support—including flight planning, overflight permits, and ground support services—at more than 3,000 airports worldwide.”
The sale of its trip support division leaves Universal with Universal Aviation, its worldwide FBO and ground-handling supervisory network, as well as the Air Culinaire in-flight catering business.
Rau added that World looks forward to welcoming Universal’s TSS team in the move, which will bring immediate value to World’s customers. The transaction is expected to be completed in the next 60 to 90 days, meaning the two companies will still exhibit as separate entities next month at NBAA-BACE.