Citadel Aviation to Acquire Mach 1 Aviation Group, Establishing Broader Gulfstream Maintenance Capabilities

Gulfstream-specialized AOG and maintenance provider extends Citadel's rapid-response reach for V/VIP operators worldwide

LAKE CHARLES, La., Sept. 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Citadel Aviation, a global leader in V/VIP and elite custom aircraft services, today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Mach 1 Aviation Group, an FAA Part 145 certificated repair station (MAGR152E) based in Savannah, Georgia, specializing in aircraft-on-ground (AOG) response and Gulfstream airframe, avionics and cabin systems support. The transaction is expected to close by the end of September 2026, subject to customary closing conditions. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The acquisition gives Citadel Aviation an operating presence on the U.S. East Coast and adds a dedicated AOG discipline to its service portfolio. Founded in 2020 former Gulfstream master technicians (Richard Bennett, Derek Johnston and Ben Venuti), Mach 1 operates from its Savannah base and supports aircraft worldwide. The team is credentialed across the Gulfstream line and brings more than 100 years of combined technical experience in avionics, SATCOM and cabin communication systems, engine and airframe systems, and entry-into-service programs.

Mach 1 is an approved services provider to the majority of Part 135 operators in its market, alongside a substantial base of Part 91 owners. Those long-standing industry relationships have made the company a consistent choice for owners seeking both maintenance support and assistance with aircraft transactions.

"Our customers expect deep technical expertise and transparency to ensure their aircraft returns to service on time and ready to fly," said Greg Colgan, CEO of Citadel Aviation. "Mach 1 has built a reputation for answering the phone and being wheels-up within hours, anywhere in the world. Pairing that responsiveness with Citadel's depth in maintenance, modification, interior refurbishments, and upgrades means an owner has access to more comprehensive suite of services. We are proud to welcome the Mach 1 team into the Citadel family, and we intend to significantly invest and expand their capabilities and capacity."

Following the close, Mach 1 will continue to operate under its FAA Part 145 certificate and retain its existing customer commitments, with its Savannah operating location becoming an East Coast service and AOG coordination point for Citadel. Mach 1 customers will gain access to Citadel's full nose-to-tail capability, including maintenance, repair and overhaul, cabin interior refurbishment, engineering, connectivity- technology upgrades, and support for narrow- and wide-body VIP aircraft. Citadel customers will gain access to a proven rapid-response resource for their Gulfstream aircraft.

The acquisition continues a period of sustained and strategic expansion for Citadel Aviation. The company rebranded from Citadel Completions in January 2026 to reflect its evolution into a full-service global provider, secured 13 new VIP aircraft projects in January alone, and established operations at Dallas Love Field in March 2026. The company has completed 48 aircraft projects to date. Mach 1 will mark Citadel's third major capability expansion in under a year.

About Mach 1 Aviation Group

Founded in 2020 and based in Savannah, Georgia, Mach 1 Aviation Group is an FAA Part 145 certificated repair station (MAGR152E) and AOG support specialist serving business aviation operators worldwide. Established by three Gulfstream FAST master technicians, the company provides rapid-response technical support for avionics, mechanical and structural requirements, alongside aviation consulting services including pre-purchase and pre-sale inspection representation, maintenance input representation, aircraft registration support and entry-into-service programs.

About Citadel Aviation

Citadel Aviation is a premier provider of maintenance, modification, refurbishment, and completions for the V/VIP and elite custom aircraft market, operating from two centers of excellence. Its headquarters at Chennault International Airport (KCWF) in Lake Charles, Louisiana, delivers comprehensive, nose-to-tail support for V/VVIP narrow- and wide-body aircraft. Its Dallas Love Field (KDAL) location serves VIP corporate and large-cabin business jets. With a steadfast commitment to operational excellence, technical expertise, and long-term client partnerships, Citadel Aviation's vision is to be the global provider of choice for the most discerning aircraft owners.

Media Contact
MD Savoy, Vice President of Brand and Market Strategy
Citadel Aviation | [email protected]
citadelaviation.com 

SOURCE Citadel Aviation