Boeing Sells Key Parts of Its Digital Aviation Business to Thoma Bravo for $10.55 Billion

Boeing has made a major move to streamline its operations and strengthen its financial position by selling parts of its Digital Aviation Solutions business to Thoma Bravo, a private equity firm specializing in software investments. The all-cash deal is valued at $10.55 billion and marks one of the most significant transactions in the aerospace industry’s digital space.

The sale includes several high-profile digital assets such as Jeppesen, ForeFlight, AerData, and OzRunways. These companies are well-known for their aviation software, navigation tools, and data services that support flight planning and operations across the globe. Despite the sale, Boeing will keep core digital functions that are essential to maintaining and repairing aircraft for both commercial airlines and defense clients. These retained capabilities will continue to provide advanced diagnostic and predictive maintenance tools, helping keep fleets running smoothly.

Boeing’s top leadership emphasized that this decision is part of a broader effort to focus on core areas, reduce debt, and maintain its strong credit rating. Kelly Ortberg, Boeing's president and CEO, explained that the deal aligns with the company’s long-term strategy and financial goals. Meanwhile, Chris Raymond, CEO of Boeing Global Services, pointed out that this separation allows both Boeing and the sold digital units to better focus on their respective strengths.

For Thoma Bravo, the acquisition represents a strategic move into aviation technology. The firm expressed enthusiasm about the legacy and innovation that come with the acquired businesses. Jeppesen, for example, has been a pioneer in aviation data and software since the 1930s. Thoma Bravo plans to invest in these platforms and support their continued growth as standalone entities.

Both Holden Spaht and Scott Crabill, managing partners at Thoma Bravo, praised the acquired business units for their strong recent growth and future potential. They committed to working closely with existing management to expand the business through strategic investments and a continued focus on innovation.

Boeing's Digital Aviation Solutions division currently employs about 3,900 people. The company is coordinating closely with Thoma Bravo to ensure a smooth transition for both employees and customers, aiming to maintain operational stability during and after the ownership change.

This deal highlights Boeing's strategic shift toward core manufacturing and support services, while allowing a leading technology investor to build on the digital aviation capabilities that have helped shape the industry for decades.