LITTLE ROCK, Ark.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Arkansas’ oldest aviation firm, Central Flying Service (“Central” or the “Company”) of Little Rock, is under new management. Central Flying Service and Tricoastal Ventures, LLC (“Tricoastal”) a capital investment firm dedicated to commercial aviation, announced today that they have concluded the acquisition from the Holbert family, the founders and owners for the past 82 years. Tricoastal acquired 100% of the stock in the company, however other terms were not disclosed. Central provides flight training, aircraft sales, heavy maintenance for propeller-driven and jet aircraft including aircraft painting, interior refurbishment, and avionics upgrades and repairs out of several hangars on the west side of Adams Field.
Departing CEO Richard Holbert is pleased with the new ownership team, including their experience and their approach. “We are proud to know that Central is in the right hands, and that the unique and lasting brand we created will continue to serve our great people and this community for decades to come,” he added.
The Company will be led by commercial aviation professionals Phil Jordan as Chief Executive Officer and Herb Knight as Chief Operating Officer, both of whom are Partners at Tricoastal. Central intends to capitalize on their existing capabilities, expanding to additional locations and adjacent markets. “We have big plans for the company, and we have the right team to maintain a culture of quality and excellence while extending our reach,” said Phil Jordan.
As sister companies under Tricoastal ownership, American Kodiak (offering the Kodiak 100) and Volare Air (offering Tecnam aircraft) will engage Central to provide full-service, authorized maintenance for the growing family of Kodiak and Tecnam aircraft owners. In addition to aircraft sales and maintenance, Central will continue to provide Flight Training and Aircraft Management and Charter services in Little Rock.
Aerospace and Defense industry veteran Brian Raduenz has been named Chairman of the Board at Central. While not involved in day-to-day operations, he will provide strategic guidance and business advice. “We are honored to be entrusted with the legacy established by the Holbert family and maintained by the loyal employees in Little Rock,” Raduenz said. “Our focus right now is excellence in commercial aviation and sales, and in the future, I could see this platform getting more involved in defense work as well.”
About Central Flying Service
Central Flying Service is an FAA authorized and licensed Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (FAA Part 145) services provider as well as avionics repairs and installation services and aircraft painting. Additionally, the company is a licensed Aircraft Management and Charter organization (FAA Part 135) and Flight Training business (FAA Part 141). Central Flying Service will maintain its headquarters at Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Alston & Bird provided legal counsel to Tricoastal, and KHA Accountants provided tax and accounting advice. Simmons Bank of Little Rock provided debt funding and will remain Central Flying Service’s banking partner.