CAE Inc. has signed an agreement to sell its airline operations software business, Flightscape, to aviation technology company SITA for an enterprise value of US$500 million, the Montreal-based group announced.
Deal terms and timetable
CAE said the transaction will allow it to sharpen its focus on its core civil and defence activities. The companies expect the deal to complete in the first half of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and normal closing conditions. Flightscape will continue operating as usual until completion, CAE added.
| seller | asset | buyer | enterprise value | expected close |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAE Inc. | Flightscape (airline operations software) | SITA | US$500 million | first half of 2027 |
Strategic rationale
CAE chief executive Matthew Bromberg said SITA is the right owner to take Flightscape forward and is well positioned to support customers, employees and continued growth. CAE characterised the disposal as a step to concentrate on its principal civil and defence businesses.
“SITA is the right owner for Flightscape’s next chapter and is well positioned to support its customers, employees, and continued growth,” Matthew Bromberg said.
The announcement follows CAE’s strategic moves in recent years to refine its portfolio around simulation, training and defence-related services. Flightscape, which provides airline operations software, will transfer to an owner whose core business is aviation information technology and communications for airlines and airports.
Implications for the market
- The acquisition strengthens SITA’s suite of operations and passenger-facing technologies by adding a specialist airline operations platform.
- CAE will reallocate management attention and capital towards its remaining civil and defence operations.
- Customers of Flightscape are expected to see continuity of service until the transaction closes, according to CAE.
CAE said Flightscape will continue to operate as normal until the deal is finalised. The transaction remains subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
