Story ID: 
Elit'Avia Establishes U.S. Base Through Pioneer Buy
By: Kerry Lynch
Caption: Elit'Avia acquired Four Corners Aviation subsidiary Pioneer Business Services, based in New York, and is establishing an Americas operation as result.
Word Count: 236
European-based aviation charter, management, and sales company Elit’Avia took a significant step toward increasing its presence in the North American market through the acquisition of Pioneer Business Services. Based in Newburgh, New York, Pioneer had been a subsidiary of Four Corners Aviation, providing a range of charter, management, and other services for aircraft owners and passengers.
With the acquisition, Elit’Avia is creating a distinct operating entity, Elit’Avia Americas, based in Newburgh, and has named Kevin Rodgers president, responsible for clients in North America and South America. Rodgers moves over from Elit’Avia’s sister company ZenithJet in Canada, where he has spent the past 14 years as executive v-p and has worked with clients at both operations. He also has held roles with Jet Aviation and Bombardier Skyjet and serves as vice chairman of the Georgia Business Aviation Association.
Meanwhile, as part of a restructuring, Elit'Avia named Malta as its European headquarters. Michel Coulomb continues as CEO and accountable manager of Elit'Avia International and will steer operations in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
“Our restructuring is a measured and purposeful step in remaining agile and ensures that we continue to deliver exceptional customer value for years to come,” Coulomb said, noting the company has had an office in Malta since 2008.