French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation has acquired technology group RUAG’s maintenance and fixed base operator (FBO) activities in Geneva and Lugano, Switzerland.

The sale of RUAG Business Aviation will enable RUAG to realign its portfolio.

Dassault Aviation CEO and chairman Eric Trappier said: “The acquisition of the business aviation activities of RUAG is part of our strategy to develop a worldwide MRO network of excellence and will allow Dassault Aviation to reinforce its footprint in Switzerland.

“RUAG has been a long-time partner of Dassault Aviation as an authorised Falcon service centre.”

As part of the strategic acquisition, Dassault will acquire all the shares of RUAG Business Aviation, which also includes all 73 members of staff at the Geneva site and 14 members at the Lugano site.

All the employees from the two sites will be under the management of the new owner.

RUAG Group CEO Urs Breitmeier said: “They are an experienced partner of RUAG and can provide a strong foundation for successfully continuing operations in Geneva and Lugano, as well as for the future of the members of our staff at both sites.”

The aviation business sites in Geneva and Lugano offer a range of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services.

The sites also provide upgrades for selected private and business aircraft manufacturers such as Dassault Aviation, Bombardier, Embraer, Pilatus, Hawker Beechcraft and Piaggio.

The Lugano-Agno maintenance facility provides MRO services for business jets at the airport. Both sites are certified maintenance organisations that adhere to standards with EASA Part 145.

VIP passengers, pilots and crew members in Lugano and Geneva will also be provided with FBO services for a comfortable journey.