Germany’s Aerowest Acquires Cargo Operator Businesswings
Aerowest has acquired cargo charter specialist Businesswings from logistics provider Sovereign Speed, expanding the Aerowest Group’s operational footprint and adding a second German air operator’s certificate to its portfolio. The transaction brings Aerowest Group’s combined fleet to 17 aircraft and strengthens its position across both passenger and cargo charter markets.
As part of the deal, Aerowest takes over Businesswings’ AOC D-213 along with a fleet of three Cessna 208 Caravan turboprops. Businesswings previously operated two Dornier 228 aircraft, including a Do228-100 currently parked at Copenhagen Roskilde since mid-April and a Do228-212 that was phased out in 2025 and later delivered to Air Sarada International in Burkina Faso. The streamlined fleet reflects Businesswings’ focus on efficient, short- to medium-haul cargo charter missions.
Aerowest confirmed that both operating certificates and brands will be retained following the acquisition. Businesswings will continue to focus on cargo charter operations, while Aerowest will remain centred on passenger charter services and specialist missions such as organ transport. According to the group, the decision to operate the airlines separately reflects differing operational profiles, even as synergies are developed in areas including sales, maintenance and crew training.
The acquisition will also result in an expansion of Aerowest Group’s workforce to around 120 employees. Staff will be based across Hannover, the group’s headquarters, as well as Businesswings’ existing locations in Kassel, Frankfurt and Stuttgart. Aerowest managing director Lars Best will assume additional responsibilities as managing director and accountable manager at Businesswings, while former Businesswings head of sales Jörg Sickinger will take on a managing director role with an operational focus.
Although ownership has changed, Businesswings will continue to cooperate closely with Sovereign Speed under an ongoing strategic partnership. The collaboration will cover ground logistics, customs handling and other support services, ensuring continuity for existing customers while allowing Businesswings to benefit from Aerowest’s broader aviation platform.
Beyond the newly acquired cargo aircraft, Aerowest’s in-house fleet includes Citation Encore+, Citation XLS+, Citation XLS Gen2, Citation Latitude and Citation Sovereign+ business jets, as well as Cessna 425 twin-turboprops. The group has continued to expand capacity in response to rising demand, particularly in passenger charter and medical transport missions.
Looking ahead, Aerowest said growth will be primarily organic, with fleet adjustments made as demand evolves across both airlines. The group’s immediate priorities include harmonising internal processes, evaluating cooperation opportunities and preserving the distinct identities of both brands. In parallel, Aerowest continues to support its operations with in-house maintenance capabilities under European Union Aviation Safety Agency Part 145 approval at its Hannover facility.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com