Delta Private Jets and Wheels Up will have over 190 private aircraft
The deal is expected to close in early 2020, subject to closing conditions and required governmental and regulatory approvals
Delta will take an equity stake in Wheels Up becoming its largest shareholder
Financial terms of the transaction are not being disclosed
The transaction sets up a three-horse race with Directional Aviation and Vista Global as they battle market leader NetJets
Wheels Up’s busy 2019 included raising more money, acquiring light jet operator TMC Jets, tech platform Avianis, expanding its jet sharing membership, plus launching fixed-rate programs for light and super-midsize jets
Last week it announced a major revamp of its own jet membership programs
Is Wheels Up now poised for international expansion?
Wheels Up and Delta Air Lines this morning are announcing they have reached a definitive agreement to combine their private jet businesses.
“This groundbreaking partnership will democratize private aviation – making the convenience of private jet travel accessible to more consumers,” said Delta CEO Ed Bastian.
