Sentry Aerospares (Sentry), a portfolio company of Acorn Capital Management, has acquired Canadian aircraft components distributor AirStart Inc., broadening its position in the regional aviation aftermarket and expanding its presence in North America.
AirStart is an independent stocking distributor of rotable aircraft components, with a strong focus on regional aircraft platforms and an established position in the Canadian market. Founded by Robert Wills, who will continue to lead the business alongside Anne Vinet, the company has built long-standing relationships with airlines, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) providers, and aviation parts distributors in Canada and internationally.
Like Sentry, AirStart specialises in supporting aircraft-on-ground (AOG) requirements by maintaining extensive stocks of certified components ready for immediate dispatch.
The acquisition enhances Sentry’s inventory portfolio, broadens its customer base and strengthens its capabilities in the regional aircraft sector. It also expands the company’s global distribution network with AirStart’s new facility near Toronto Pearson Airport, complementing Sentry’s existing hubs in London, the New York metropolitan area and Dallas, and further strengthening its 24/7 AOG support services.
The combined business is expected to generate commercial synergies through cross-selling opportunities, greater inventory availability and an enhanced ability to provide rapid, reliable aftermarket support to customers worldwide.
