FlightSafety International has agreed to acquire the commercial aviation training business of Clearwater-based Acron Technologies, expanding FlightSafety’s simulator manufacturing and training operations in the commercial airline market.
The deal covers Acron’s Commercial Training Solutions business, including its Training Systems, Training Services, Aviation Academy and Driver Training operations. The companies did not disclose the purchase price.
What the transaction means for Clearwater remains unclear. The announcement did not identify which U.S. facilities, employees or functions would transfer to FlightSafety or specify whether the deal would affect Acron’s local workforce.
Beyond that unanswered local question, the announcement provides a clearer picture of what FlightSafety is buying.
Commercial Training Solutions has more than eight decades of experience manufacturing commercial airline simulators and providing training, with more than 850 training devices delivered and more than 300 full-flight simulators currently operating worldwide. Its training and manufacturing operations span the United States, United Kingdom and Thailand and include airline academy programs and driver training systems.
That existing capacity could become more valuable as the commercial aviation market grows. FlightSafety cited a projection that the global commercial airline fleet will increase from about 28,000 aircraft in 2025 to more than 50,000 by 2045, growth the company said would increase demand for commercial training capacity and advanced simulation technology.
FlightSafety already operates training locations on six continents, providing aviation training and simulation technology to airlines, government and military organizations and other aviation customers. Its programs serve pilots, technicians and other aviation professionals from more than 170 countries.
The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026, pending customary closing conditions. Acron is owned by private equity firm TJC LP, formerly The Jordan Company.