TKH acquires JCAII - Acquisition complements TKH’s CEDD Technology

TKH Group N.V. (TKH), the parent company of TKH Airport Solutions, announced today that it has acquired 100% of the shares in JCAI Inc (JCAII). The acquisition combines the unique capabilities of TKH Airport Solutions’ smart airfield ground lighting (AGL) and JCAII’s traffic guidance systems.

JCAII offers state-of-the-art guidance software and equipment that provides airports with the tools needed to ensure the aircraft is directed automatically over the tarmac, allowing for maximization of throughput, whilst balancing safety. JCAII has established a strong track record in the airport de-icing area, its patented technology coordinating visual guidance, real time data and operational messaging to both flight and ground crew. JCAII’s software is currently deployed across many airports as well as airlines.

JCAII is based in Toronto, Canada and employs 35 people of which the majority is related to R&D and software development. The annual turnover of JCAII amounted to CAD 13.7 million, with 25% of turnover derived from recurring software sales. JCAII will be able to take advantage of as well as accelerate the growth of the advanced TKH CEDD connectivity technology especially in the North American market. TKH finances the transaction from existing resources. The transaction is expected to have a positive effect on TKH’s earnings per share as per 2024.

Commenting on the acquisition, Alexander van der Lof, CEO of TKH Group, said: “JCAII has established a strong track record in the aviation industry with its groundbreaking guidance software and hardware, which fully complement TKH’s proprietary CEDD technology. Through the combination of JCAII’s activities with TKH we will be able to boost the growth of both JCAII and the TKH CEDD connectivity technology. We look forward to working together to increase the efficiency and safety of the aviation community.”

Jeff Campbell, President of JCAII, continued: “We are excited to work together with TKH, to continue to fulfill our roadmap of equipping the aviation industry with the most advanced technological infrastructure. The combined technological and commercial resources will bring innovative technologies to the market faster and to the appropriate scale through integrated solutions that automate and allow for safer and more efficient airport and airline operations.” 

Erik Velderman, CEO of TKH Airport Solutions, concluded: “The acquisition represents a significant milestone for both companies, combining TKH Airport Solutions’ expertise in Smart AGL with JCAII’s strengths in intelligent de-icing process and traffic management systems. The union of our companies will drive innovation, fuel growth, and create new opportunities for clients, partners, and employees.”

Intelligent airfield systems
The combination of the technologies of both companies will establish an unprecedented level of intelligence within the aviation community. TKH Airport Solutions’ innovative CEDD AGL technology has the ability to seamlessly integrate with JCAII’s intelligent management systems Icelink^® and SmartPad^®. The combination of these technologies was already installed successfully in the new centralized de-icing facility at Memphis International Airport.

North American market
The acquisition will accelerate the growth for both companies globally, and will further position TKH Airport Solutions in the North American market, giving the company the opportunity to provide more extensive project support to its existing and future clients. Customers and partners can expect a seamless transition, with both companies working closely to integrate operations and deliver uninterrupted service. The acquisition will also create synergies that enable the development of innovative solutions to address evolving market needs.