Solairus Aviation has agreed to acquire Clay Lacy Aviation’s aircraft management and charter divisions, creating a managed fleet of more than 500 aircraft once the transaction closes. The divisional deal will leave Clay Lacy’s FBO, maintenance and real estate businesses outside the transaction, while Solairus keeps its headquarters in Petaluma, California, alongside offices in Los Angeles and New York.
Solairus currently manages about 360 aircraft, while Clay Lacy’s managed fleet is about 140 aircraft. Combined, the two platforms would form what Solairus describes as the world’s largest managed fleet. The companies have not disclosed financial terms, and closing remains subject to regulatory approvals and other customary conditions.
The acquisition adds scale in private aviation at a time when fleet size and network reach are central competitive advantages in aircraft management and charter. Clay Lacy, founded in 1968, remains one of the sector’s long-established brands, while Solairus expands through a transaction focused on operating businesses rather than a full corporate takeover.