XLCS Partners Facilitates Strategic Sale of Aero Controls to Air Transport Components

In a notable development within the aerospace sector, XLCS Partners, Inc. has successfully acted as the exclusive merger and acquisition advisor for Aero Controls, Inc. (ACI) during its sale to Air Transport Components (ATC Group). This transaction represents a pivotal moment for both companies, further solidifying ATC Group's position in the global aerospace market.

Founded in 1984 and headquartered near Seattle, Washington, ACI has distinguished itself as a full-service parts distributor and an FAA, EASA, UK CAA, and ISO/AS certified Part 145 repair station. The company operates out of three locations, totaling over 225,000 square feet, specializing in a wide range of services including component repair and overhaul, parts sales, aircraft dismantlement, and consignment management. Its extensive capabilities cover areas such as avionics, electromechanical systems, pneumatics, transmissions, hydraulics, and emergency equipment repair.

With over four decades of technical expertise and a reputation built on quality and reliability, ACI has garnered the trust of major airlines and operators worldwide. The company’s commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction has been at the heart of its long-standing success in the competitive aerospace industry.

On the other hand, ATC Group is recognized as a leading provider of component maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the aerospace industry. Supported by AE Industrial Partners, a private investment firm focused on national security and industrial services, ATC Group is working to build a specialized MRO platform. The acquisition of ACI marks ATC Group’s second strategic addition since AE Industrial's investment in 2025, following the acquisition of PAS MRO, a specialist in bearing repair. This move not only expands ATC’s in-house engineering and component repair capabilities but also enhances inventory reach across various markets, including commercial, cargo, and military sectors.

ACI will continue to function as a separate business unit under the ATC Group umbrella, maintaining its current team and leadership structure to ensure continuity and support for growth. This transition is expected to bolster ACI’s resources and technological capabilities, enabling it to better serve its global clientele.

John Titus, founder of ACI, expressed his deep commitment to the legacy of the company, stating, “I’ve spent my career focused on customers, employees, and growing a business in the aerospace industry, not preparing a company for sale.” He highlighted that the decision to sell was guided not solely by financial interests but by the desire to protect the company’s legacy and the people who contributed to its success. Titus praised XLCS Partners for their clarity, experience, and trusted guidance throughout the sale process.

Joe Contaldo, Partner and head of XLCS Aerospace & Defense, commented, “ACI is exactly the kind of business that defines the best of this industry – a founder-built, technically deep MRO and parts platform with a loyal global customer base.” He emphasized the importance of finding a suitable partner for ACI’s future and expressed pride in advising ACI in this significant transaction.

The sale, which was officially closed on May 14, 2026, underscores the interconnectedness of the aerospace industry and the vital role of strategic partnerships in navigating the complexities of the ever-evolving market. As ATC Group integrates ACI’s operations, the two entities are set to collaborate closely, leveraging their combined strengths to meet the increasing demands of the aerospace sector.

XLCS Partners continues to serve as a respected investment banking firm, specializing in M&A advisory services for clients globally, particularly those in the aerospace and defense sectors. Their expertise and commitment to fostering successful partnerships have positioned them as a key player in notable industry transactions.