Falko Regional Aircraft Limited (Falko) and its affiliates have officially transitioned ownership from Chorus Aviation (Chorus) to affiliates of investment funds managed by HPS Investment Partners (HPS). This significant development was marked by a statement from Jeremy Barnes, Falko's Chief Executive Officer, who expressed optimism about the company's future under its new ownership.
Barnes highlighted the long-standing relationship between Falko's management and HPS executives, stating, “With the support of HPS and its senior executives… I firmly believe that Falko will continue to excel in our segment of the leasing market.” He also praised the achievements made during Chorus' tenure, which included the expansion of Falko's aircraft portfolio to over 220 aircraft and the growth of its workforce to 86 employees. Acknowledging Chorus' contributions, Barnes remarked on its role in establishing Falko as an industry leader in the 70 to 130-seat aircraft leasing segment.
The transition to HPS marks the beginning of a new chapter for Falko. The company will maintain its current leadership structure, with Barnes continuing as CEO, alongside the existing senior management team.
As of the completion of the ownership change, Falko will now oversee 226 aircraft leased to 39 customers. Its operations will now span across three principal offices located in Hatfield, Dublin and Singapore, supported by a workforce of 86 employees.
With the backing of HPS, the company will now aim to further strengthen its platform and build on the successes achieved over the past decade.