Optima Aero, a supplier of refurbished helicopter parts and engines headquartered in Canada, has entered into an agreement with aftermarket player Uniflight Global to buy its assets located in Grand Prairie, Texas. The creation of Optima Aero USA aligns with the growth strategy of the Canadian company, aiming to accelerate its international expansion.

"We are looking forward to welcoming the dedicated team of experts from Uniflight Global in Grand Prairie to our organisation. Once completed, this acquisition will consolidate our position as a leader in the helicopter aftermarket. Building on the proud history of the Grand Prairie team, the establishment of Optima Aero USA opens up new business opportunities and promotes our growth in the North American market. With increased capacity and an expanded range of services, we are well positioned to meet the growing needs of our customers. We intend to invest in the development of this 30,000 sq ft centre of excellence, specialising in helicopter maintenance, repair and overhaul and components," says Optima president Toby Gauld.

“I have tremendous respect for Toby Gauld and the organisation that he has built at Optima Aero,” adds Uniflight CEO and chairman Joe Hawke. “So I am delighted to have the hard work and dedication of my Uniflight-Grand Prairie colleagues be recognised by one of the industry's leading aftermarket solution providers. The acquisition of the Grand Prairie location by Optima Aero is ideal for US market entry. We wish Optima Aero continued growth and success with its new US-based operations, and we look forward working together in the future.”

Optima Aero has expanded its service offering and is now able to provide maintenance services and turnkey complementary solutions for a wide range of helicopters and engines from Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo Helicopters, Bell Flight and Sikorsky.

"The advanced expertise of the Grand Prairie team, combined with the robustness of the existing processes, will enable us to increase our capacity to deliver innovative, environmentally friendly and high-quality solutions to our customers worldwide. With our team of specialists spread across our facilities in Beloeil, Anglet and Grand Prairie, Optima Aero is committed to pushing the boundaries of excellence and remaining at the forefront of the aerospace industry," says Gauld.

Optima Aero is committed to maintaining the highest standards of quality, reliability and customer satisfaction. The establishment of Optima Aero USA, following the announcement of Optima Aero Europe in 2022, reinforces Optima Aero's commitment to being a trusted partner for its customers.

This transaction does not impact the operations of Uniflight Global at its West Penn site in Pennsylvania. It will continue its activities under the leadership of CEO Joe Hawke and general manager Dan Mansfield.