The airplane maintenance industry in Europe is a vital sector focused on ensuring the safety and reliability of aircraft through regular servicing, repairs, and overhauls. Several companies, ranging from established firms to innovative startups, specialize in areas such as airframe maintenance, engine servicing, and parts supply. The industry is witnessing a shift towards sustainability as many companies explore eco-friendly practices and adopt advanced technologies like drones for inspections. This evolution is driven not only by growing air traffic but also a heightened emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance, making the industry dynamic and promising for the future.


This listing consists of various investors in the airplane maintenance sector, each demonstrating unique characteristics. Private equity firms, corporate investors, and venture capitalists make up this vibrant cohort. Predominantly headquartered in major European cities, these investors range in size from small firms to global giants, with activity levels reflecting a total of 357 investments in 2024. Notably, firms established over the past few decades bring substantial expertise to the industry, investing heavily to cater to the escalating demands of aviation maintenance and innovation.


Top 18 Airplane Maintenance Investors in Europe


1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a public entity and financial institution based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. It supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a variety of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. Bpifrance aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation by providing coaching and partnerships to help businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in significant transactions within the aviation sector, such as the acquisition of a majority interest in Sabena technics, a key player in airplane maintenance, which generated approximately €450 million in revenue in 2018. Additionally, Bpifrance participated in funding rounds for Elixir Aircraft, a company focused on low-carbon light aircraft, further demonstrating its commitment to the aviation industry. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's active role in supporting companies that are integral to airplane maintenance and the broader aviation ecosystem.


2. Airbus

  • Website: airbus.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Blagnac, Occitanie, France
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: airbusgroup

Airbus SE is a leading aerospace manufacturer specializing in the design and production of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology. Founded in 2003 and based in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, Airbus serves a global customer base, including airlines, military organizations, and space agencies, providing innovative solutions that enhance connectivity, security, and exploration. In addition to its core manufacturing capabilities, Airbus has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the airplane maintenance sector. Notably, in 2017, Airbus acquired Sepang Aircraft Engineering Sdn Bhd, taking full control of the maintenance, repair, and overhaul center, which is a key part of its Customer Services network in the Asia Pacific market. Furthermore, Airbus's acquisition of Vector Aerospace Corp in 2011 and Satair A/S in 2011, both of which are involved in aircraft services and parts distribution, further solidifies its commitment to supporting the maintenance needs of its customers. Airbus is also dedicated to sustainability and advancing aerospace technology, making it a comprehensive player in the aerospace industry.


3. BBA Aviation plc

  • Website: bbaaviation.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1879
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: bba-aviation-plc

BBA Aviation plc, based in London, England, is a corporate investor specializing in private aviation services. Founded in 1879, the company operates under the brand Signature Aviation, which offers a comprehensive range of solutions including maintenance, fuel services, and loyalty programs for aviation customers. BBA Aviation has been actively expanding its footprint in the aviation maintenance sector through strategic acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Ontic Engineering and Manufacturing, Inc. in 2006, which enhances their engineering capabilities, and the acquisition of Meridian's facilities at Teterboro and Hayward Airports in January 2024, which further strengthens their maintenance service offerings. Additionally, their acquisition of Landmark Aviation in 2015 for approximately $2.065 billion significantly expanded their global flight support network, adding numerous FBO locations that provide maintenance services. These transactions highlight BBA Aviation's commitment to maintaining and enhancing its position in the airplane maintenance industry.


4. Tikehau Capital


Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, the firm offers a diverse range of services including private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Tikehau Capital serves a variety of clients, including institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. Notably, Tikehau Capital has been actively involved in the airplane maintenance sector, with significant transactions such as the ongoing exclusive negotiations to acquire Sabena Technics, a company with a revenue of €650 million specializing in aeronautical maintenance. Additionally, their acquisition of Groupe ROSSI AERO in December 2021 further highlights their strategic focus on the aerospace industry. These transactions underscore Tikehau Capital's commitment to investing in companies that play a crucial role in airplane maintenance and the broader aerospace sector.


5. European Innovation Council (EIC)


The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, founded in 1958, that supports innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. It offers various funding programs, including the EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale their technologies. The EIC also provides business acceleration services, networking opportunities, and prizes to foster innovation in multiple sectors. Recently, the EIC has been involved in significant transactions within the aviation industry, such as its participation in Heart Aerospace's Series B funding round, which raised $107 million for the development of hybrid-electric aircraft. Additionally, the EIC supported Maeve Aerospace with €2.5 million for the development of a full-electric regional airliner. These transactions highlight the EIC's active role in promoting innovative solutions in aviation, which is relevant to the airplane maintenance sector.


6. Cvc

  • Website: cvc.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent private equity firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2005. It specializes in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure, managing approximately €193 billion in assets for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors. CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Among their notable transactions in the aviation sector, CVC acquired Ontic Engineering and Manufacturing, Inc., a key player in aerospace parts manufacturing, for $1.365 billion in 2019. In 2024, they further expanded their portfolio by acquiring CTC Moyson Airport Equipment, which is integral to airport operations. Additionally, CVC's acquisition of HiSERV, a ground service equipment specialist, highlights their commitment to enhancing the operational capabilities of the aviation industry. These investments reflect CVC's strategic interest in companies that play a vital role in airplane maintenance and support services.


7. Ldc

  • Website: ldc.co.uk
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited, commonly known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. They focus on helping management teams achieve their growth ambitions through investment and advisory services, fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC has made several significant acquisitions in the aviation sector, including Airline Services Interiors in 2012, MB Aerospace in 2007, AIM Altitude in 2010, Ascend Worldwide in 2005, and PDG Helicopters in 2015. These transactions highlight LDC's commitment to investing in companies that contribute to airplane maintenance and related services, reinforcing their relevance in this industry.


8. Safran

  • Website: safran-group.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 9
  • LinkedIn: safran

Safran is a prominent aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Founded in 2005, the company specializes in aircraft equipment, propulsion systems, and defense technologies, serving a diverse clientele that includes aircraft manufacturers and military organizations. Safran is committed to innovation, sustainability, and technological advancement in the aviation and defense sectors. Notably, Safran has been actively involved in transactions that enhance its capabilities in airplane maintenance. For instance, in September 2024, Safran Aircraft Engines acquired Component Repair Technologies, a move that likely strengthens their maintenance service offerings. Additionally, their acquisition of Zodiac Aerospace in January 2017 for over $9 billion further expands their portfolio in the aerospace sector, which includes maintenance services. Safran has also invested in companies like Cranfield Aerospace, focusing on hydrogen-electric propulsion, indicating their forward-thinking approach to aviation technology and maintenance solutions.


9. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a prominent private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in a diverse range of investment strategies, including private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing varied investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in the aviation sector, including the acquisition of EIS Aircraft Group in 2015, which focuses on products and services for civil and military aviation, including maintenance services. Additionally, EQT's investment in Unilode Aviation Solutions highlights their engagement in aviation-related services, further solidifying their position as an investor in the airplane maintenance industry.


10. Ardian

  • Website: ardian.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 21
  • LinkedIn: ardian

Ardian is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1996, headquartered in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions, Ardian provides tailored investment strategies to institutional investors, family offices, and pension funds, focusing on sustainable finance and high-quality private market investments. Notably, Ardian has made significant investments in the aviation support sector, including a substantial equity interest in Alvest, a company that provides airport ground support equipment, which is crucial for airplane maintenance and operations. Additionally, Ardian's acquisition of NHV Group, an international helicopter transport services company, further demonstrates its involvement in the aviation industry. These transactions highlight Ardian's commitment to enhancing operational capabilities within the aviation sector, making it a relevant player in the airplane maintenance context.


11. Aerospace Xelerated

  • Website: xelerated.aero
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2019
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: ukaeroaccel

Aerospace Xelerated is a corporate startup accelerator based in London, England, founded in 2019. The firm specializes in supporting innovative companies within the aerospace industry by providing mentorship, investment opportunities, and corporate partnerships. Their goal is to help startups navigate challenges and scale their operations effectively. Notably, Aerospace Xelerated has been involved in several transactions that highlight their focus on the aerospace sector. Among these, Aiir Innovations stands out as a key investment; this Amsterdam-based company offers AI-based software solutions for aircraft engine inspection, which is directly relevant to airplane maintenance. Other investments include AireXpert, Amygda, AEROSENS, and the Airline Pilot Club, although these do not specifically focus on maintenance. Overall, Aerospace Xelerated's commitment to fostering innovation in aerospace, particularly through technology that can enhance maintenance practices, positions them as a relevant investor in the airplane maintenance industry.


12. Permira

  • Website: permira.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: permira

Permira is a London-based private equity investment firm founded in 1985, specializing in private equity and credit solutions. The firm partners with management teams and entrepreneurs to drive growth and create long-term value across various sectors, including technology, consumer, healthcare, and services. Notably, Permira has made strategic investments in the aviation sector, including the acquisition of Jet Aviation in 2005, which provides comprehensive aircraft services, including maintenance. Additionally, in 2019, Permira acquired a majority stake in Topcast Aviation Supplies, the largest independent aircraft parts distributor in the Asia Pacific region, further solidifying its presence in the aviation maintenance industry. These transactions reflect Permira's commitment to transforming businesses into market leaders within the aviation sector.


13. Avia Solutions Group

  • Website: aviasg.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: avia-solutions-group-ab

Avia Solutions Group is a corporate investor based in Dublin, Ireland, founded in 2010. It is a prominent aviation services provider that offers a comprehensive suite of services, including ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance), aircraft leasing, aviation consulting, and training. The company serves a global clientele of airlines and aviation businesses, providing essential support for their operations. Notably, Avia Solutions Group has made significant acquisitions that enhance its capabilities in the aviation sector. In 2016, they acquired a controlling interest in Helisota, a Lithuania-based helicopter maintenance organization, which underscores their commitment to the maintenance aspect of aviation. More recently, they have expanded their portfolio by acquiring AirExplore, a Slovakian ACMI/charter carrier, and Synergy Aviation, a UK private aircraft charter and management company. These strategic acquisitions reflect Avia Solutions Group's focus on enhancing its market position and operational capabilities across various segments of the aviation industry.


14. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, UK, founded in 2011. The firm focuses on providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in RVL Group, a Midlands aviation specialist, with a £2.8 million investment aimed at expanding their aircraft fleet and developing new business areas. Additionally, BGF has also been involved in funding ROVOP, a subsea ROV services company, which, while not directly related to airplane maintenance, indicates their interest in the broader aviation and maritime sectors. These transactions highlight BGF's capability and willingness to invest in companies that operate within the aviation industry, making them a relevant player in the airplane maintenance investment landscape.


15. STAR Capital Partnership LLP

  • Website: star-capital.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: star-capital.com

STAR Capital Partnership LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in strategic asset-based investments across Western Europe, managing capital from institutional investors. STAR Capital focuses on sectors such as transport, utilities, and healthcare, partnering with management teams to enhance shareholder value and ensure long-term growth. Notably, STAR Capital acquired SR Technics in 2002, a leading provider of aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul services, which underscores their commitment to the aviation maintenance sector. In 2019, they expanded their aviation portfolio by acquiring a majority stake in ASL Aviation Holdings, further solidifying their presence in the aviation industry. Their investment strategy includes targeting asset-based companies with significant enterprise value, as seen in their acquisition of Vincorion, which, while not directly related to airplane maintenance, reflects their broader investment approach in strategic sectors.


16. Groupe Crédit Agricole

  • Website: credit-agricole.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Montrouge, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1894
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 18
  • LinkedIn: credit-agricole

Groupe Crédit Agricole is a cooperative banking group based in Montrouge, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1894. It provides a wide range of financial services, including banking, insurance, and investment management, with a focus on mutuality and social responsibility. In recent years, Crédit Agricole has been involved in several notable transactions within the aviation sector, particularly in debt financing. For instance, it participated in a $350 million debt raise for Embraer in August 2024 and a $650 million debt raise for the same company in October 2022. Additionally, it was part of a group of banks that provided a secured portfolio financing facility for $700 million to CDB Aviation in October 2018. These transactions highlight Crédit Agricole's active engagement in financing key players in the aviation industry, which includes aspects related to airplane maintenance.


17. TowerBrook Capital Partners L.P.


TowerBrook Capital Partners L.P. is a private equity investment management firm based in London, England, founded in 2001. The firm specializes in private equity and structured opportunities, focusing on protecting and growing investors' savings by partnering with management teams to enhance business performance. TowerBrook operates across various sectors, providing strategic support to drive value creation for its portfolio companies. Notably, TowerBrook has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including the acquisition of Sabena technics, a company that provides maintenance and support services for aircraft, and AIM Altitude, which specializes in aircraft interiors. Additionally, they acquired LiftWerx Solutions, further demonstrating their commitment to the aerospace and maintenance industry. These transactions highlight TowerBrook's strategic interest in enhancing growth opportunities within the airplane maintenance sector.


18. European Investment Bank (EIB)


The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, founded in 1958, that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. EIB's clientele includes both public and private organizations seeking funding for initiatives that promote growth and job creation. Notably, EIB has engaged in transactions that touch upon the aviation sector, such as providing €10 million in funding to Quantum-Systems GmbH, a leader in small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), aimed at expanding operations and fostering technological innovation in the UAS mapping and surveillance industry. Additionally, EIB has participated in debt financing for companies like Spire Global, which, while primarily focused on satellite technology, also intersects with aviation through its applications. These transactions highlight EIB's involvement in sectors that could relate to airplane maintenance, although its primary focus remains broader than just aviation.



Airplane Maintenance Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
AirbusBlagnac, Occitanie, France10001+20036
BBA Aviation plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)5001-1000018791
Tikehau CapitalParis, Île-De-France, France501-100020046
European Innovation Council (EIC)Brussels, Brussels, Belgium201-500195857
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115
SafranParis, Île-De-France, France10001+20059
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
ArdianParis, Île-De-France, France1001-5000199621
Aerospace XeleratedLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1-1020190
PermiraLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)501-100019858
Avia Solutions GroupDublin, Dublin, Ireland10001+20101
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
STAR Capital Partnership LLPLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5019994
Groupe Crédit AgricoleMontrouge, Île-De-France, France10001+189418
TowerBrook Capital Partners L.P.London, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020015
European Investment Bank (EIB)Luxembourg1001-5000195899


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