Cincinnati, OH – July 30, 2012 - GE Aviation announced today that it has acquired Austin Digital, a privately owned, Texas-based supplier of flight operations data analysis. Austin Digital’s flight operations capabilities strengthen GE’s services offerings with integrated solutions for aviation customers around the world.
“GE is committed to delivering solutions that help our customers operate aircraft more efficiently, with reduced environmental impact,” said Paul McElhinney, president & CEO, GE Aviation Services. “The acquisition of Austin Digital brings some of the best flight operations technology to GE Aviation’s Services business, further expanding our commitment to deliver results for our customers. We are delighted that Austin Digital is joining our team today.”
“This is great news for Austin Digital employees and our customers,” said Austin Digital CEO Thom Mayer. “Customers will continue to benefit from the same expertise and service for which Austin Digital is known, while the strength of GE provides a platform for future innovation and growth.”
ADI is a global leader in flight data analysis technology, specializing in facilitating Flight Operational Quality Assurance (FOQA) for airlines and business jet operators. ADI uses a proprietary suite of tools to analyze digital flight data and other operational data to improve safety and efficiency for operators, a compelling addition to GE Aviation Services’ suite of customer-focused products and services.
Flight data analysis encompasses a variety of functions affecting flight operations. The most prominent use is in the area of safety, where flight data is collected and analyzed to reveal high-risk events and trends. This process enables operators to proactively and effectively manage risk. Flight data analysis is also widely used in support of maintenance and engineering. Finally, flight data analysis can generate some of the largest tangible returns on investment when used to improve efficiency through optimization of fuel usage, reduction of emissions and improvement of component life.
Austin Digital’s capabilities will be integrated into GE’s fuel and carbon management program focused on helping customers reduce their cost of ownership, cut fuel consumption and decrease emissions. Fuel and Carbon Solutions combines GE’s technical expertise in flight operations, engine upgrades and advanced avionics, Lean Six Sigma techniques, GE’s new ClearCore engine wash, and advanced diagnostic capabilities to identify, implement and track fuel savings opportunities for airlines and business jet operators.
Austin Digital is headquartered in Austin, Texas and employs approximately 40 employees.
GE Aviation, an operating unit of GE (NYSE: GE), is a world-leading provider of jet and turboprop engines, components and integrated systems for commercial, military, business and general aviation aircraft. GE Aviation has a global service network to support these offerings. For more information, visit us at www.ge.com/aviation. Follow GE Aviation on Twitter at http://twitter.com/GEAviation and YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/user/GEAviation.
