Private Equity Firm Acquires Pan Am Flight Academy

Acorn Capital Management, a private equity firm focused on Aerospace, Defense, Intelligence, and Space sectors, has acquired Pan Am Flight Academy, LLC. Based in Miami, Florida, Pan Am is a leading independent provider of simulator-based flight training and ancillary services, operating a fleet of 25 full flight simulators and training devices across commercial aircraft platforms.

This acquisition marks the fourth platform investment under Acorn’s fifth fund. Acorn has partnered with industry veteran Ed Wegel, who will lead the company as CEO. Current President and COO Jeff Portanova will continue in his role and join the Board of Directors.

Pan Am served over 550 customers in 2024, primarily passenger and cargo airline operators. The company’s new facility in Hialeah, Florida provides space to expand its simulator fleet and training capacity. With Acorn’s capital and strategic support, Pan Am aims to grow both organically and through acquisitions.

"I look forward to leading this great company as we grow our simulator base and provide additional training capabilities in all areas of airline operations for our growing list of airline customers," said Pan Am CEO, Ed Wegel.  "The next phase for Pan Am is exciting as we partner with Acorn to provide the resources we need to fulfill our ambitions."