Story ID: 
Wheels Up Completes Air Partner Acquisition
By: Jerry Siebenmark
Caption: The Air Partner acquisition gives Wheels Up its first international foothold.
Word Count: 234
Wheels Up has completed its acquisition of UK-based Air Partner in a transaction valued at approximately $109 million, giving the New York-based private aviation membership and on-demand charter company its first international foothold. Air Partner is an aviation service provider founded in 1961 whose services include private jet, group, and freight charter, as well as aviation safety and security solutions.

“We are thrilled to welcome the Air Partner team as Wheels Up officially goes global,” said Wheels Up chairman and CEO Kenny Dichter. “Air Partner’s rich 60-year history in private aviation and complementary services will be an excellent enhancement of our brand as we continue to expand our marketplace and deliver a world-class experience for our members and customers. Bringing these two teams together is a tremendous advantage as we work to reinvent the future of private travel.”

Wheels Up expects to integrate the private aviation services under its brand over time. However, Air Partner subsidiaries Baines Simmons, Redline Assured Security, CHS Engineering Services, and Kenyon International Emergency Services will continue to operate under their brands.

Air Partner’s leadership team, including CEO Mark Briffa, will continue in their roles, according to Wheels Up. “We expect to leverage Wheels Up’s investments in brand, technology, operations, and service as we continue our strong start to 2022,” Briffa added. Air Partner also will retain its headquarters in Gatwick, UK.