Prominent South African company Starlite Aviation has been sold to French company SAF Hélicoptères to form part of a global aviation group: SAF Aerogroup.
SAF Aerogroup, is consolidating its position as the French leader and a major player in the helicopter and fixed wing service sectors worldwide, by opening up new markets in Africa and the Middle East.
The new group of 500 employees, manages 8 maintenance bases, 2 training centres, 5 flight simulators and operates a fleet of 78 mission aircraft for: Medevac operations, EMS, light and heavy lift work and VIP transport. The pilot training fleet consists of 40 helicopters and fixed wing aircraft, including 3 twin turboprop aircraft.
SAF Aerogroup operates in France, Ireland, Belgium, South Africa, Mali and Niger with a consolidated turnover of 100 million dollars. Within three years, SAF is expected to create 100 to 300 additional jobs and a turnover of 150 million dollars.
The acquisition opens up new market opportunities for the SAF Aerogroup geographically and expands their areas of expertise. Starlite is a leading multi-faceted aviation group of companies, offering helicopter and fixed wing aircraft for challenging missions in austere environments and a well-established manned and UAV pilot training academy, supported by numerous dedicated maintenance divisions across Africa.
Recognised worldwide, Starlite has maintained a strong presence and long history rooted in Africa, providing 24/7 mission ready helicopter and fixed wing aircraft for complex assignments for: medical emergency services, and rescue and relief.
Starlite Aviation’s globally recognisable brand will remain unchanged under SAF Aerogroup. Gareth Schnehage, CEO of Starlite Aviation says, “We are delighted to be joining the SAF Aerogroup. Ultimately, it is our customers and employees who will benefit from this merger.”
“Our ambition is to become a global player in airborne services, and this acquisition takes us one step further in that direction. Our common culture aimed at excellence will significantly facilitate the integration of Starlite Aviation teams”, said Tristan Serretta, CEO of SAF Aerogroup.
