Irish aviation software firm Arconics has been snapped up by a Nasdaq-listed broadband giant
The tech company, which counts Ryanair and Aer Lingus as clients, was acquired by ViaSat for an undisclosed sum.
IRISH AVIATION SOFTWARE firm Arconics has been bought by Nasdaq-listed broadband provider ViaSat for an undisclosed sum.
Headquartered in Dublin with offices in Sydney, Arconics makes software for airlines to control in-flight entertainment systems and electronic flight bags, which are devices used by flight crews to manage documents without the need for paper.
Its suite of apps also includes ‘PaxApp’, which allows passengers to make comments and suggestions for crew members through their smartphone.
Founded in 2001 by its current chief executive, Niall O’Sullivan, Arconics counts Aer Lingus and Ryanair as customers as well as major global carriers Qatar Airways and Cathay Pacific.
ViaSat – which generated sales of $1.42 billion in the financial year ended 31 March 2016 – was already partnered with the firm, providing its wireless in-flight entertainment systems.
Arconics electronic flight bag
Satellites
When the acquisition is complete, ViaSat said it expects to make its satellites, which it claims “has more capacity in orbit than any other in-flight Wi-Fi provider”, available for use to airlines.
“By acquiring Arconics, we are bolstering our ability to serve the global aviation market,” said Don Buchman, vice president and general manager of commercial mobility business at ViaSat.
Arconics boss Niall O’Sullivan said his firm was a good match for ViaSat, both “culturally and technology”.
“We know ViaSat well, having partnered with them on a number of opportunities,” he said.
