Acorn Capital Management has agreed to sell its San Marcos, Texas-based operator of government and defense aviation services, Berry Aviation, for $105 million. The deal positions the buyer, Houston‑based Bristow Group, to expand its vertical flight portfolio. The transaction is slated to close in the third quarter of 2026 for its strategic growth in defense.

Berry Aviation, founded in 1983, operates a fleet that supports U.S. military and federal agencies. Acquiring the company gives Bristow Group immediate access to a crew and established contracts, strengthening its footprint in the defense‑support market. The purchase aligns with Bristow’s strategy to broaden its service mix beyond rotor‑craft operations across its global network in.

The $105 million transaction reflects Bristow’s willingness to invest heavily in niche defense services. With Berry Aviation’s existing client base, the deal could boost revenue streams and diversify Bristow’s portfolio against market volatility. Investors will watch how the integration affects operational efficiency and whether the acquisition delivers the projected synergies in the upcoming fiscal year.

The sale underscores the growing consolidation within the U.S. defense aviation sector. As companies seek scale to meet complex client demands, acquisitions like this set a benchmark for value and integration speed. Market participants will evaluate Bristow’s ability to leverage Berry Aviation’s expertise while maintaining its operational standards and ensuring regulatory compliance for all stakeholders.