Bain Capital has acquired APP Jet Center, a five-location US fixed-base operator, in a move that establishes the private equity firm’s entry into the business aviation services sector.

The deal was made with Ridgewood Infrastructure, with financial terms undisclosed. Bain Capital has appointed former Signature Aviation CEO Mark Johnstone to lead the new platform.

APP Jet Center operates FBOs at airports in South Florida, Washington DC, the San Francisco Bay Area and Denver. It provides aircraft hangarage, fuelling and related real estate services. Bain Capital plans to expand the network through further acquisitions at supply-constrained airports and to invest across the existing infrastructure to support rising demand.

Chris Leddy, managing director at Bain Capital Real Estate, says: “APP Jet Center is a strong starting point for our FBO strategy. We see an opportunity to support growth through continued investment in facilities, operations and leadership.”

“I am truly excited by the acquisition of APP Jet Center and see this as a tremendous foundation for our new FBO journey,” adds Johnstone.