Goldman Sachs Alternatives has divested its stake in Aviation Facilities Company Management (AFCO) to investment firm Ardian for an undisclosed amount. Goldman Sachs acquired AFCO in 2018 and has since facilitated its growth through various value-creation strategies.

AFCO, based in Dulles, Virginia, manages over 3.5 million square feet of airport infrastructure across 29 properties at 15 locations in the US and UK. Its portfolio includes cargo warehouses, aircraft aprons, ground support facilities, maintenance hangars, and opportunities for further development and acquisition.

Stefano Mion, co-head of infrastructure Americas at Ardian, expressed enthusiasm about partnering with AFCO, emphasizing the value of the team's extensive experience and relationships in the airport infrastructure sector. He noted that Ardian aims to build on AFCO's strong foundation and accelerate its growth.

Leonarda Orani, managing director at Ardian, highlighted that this investment aligns with the firm's strategic initiative to expand in the infrastructure and aviation markets. Over the past decade, Ardian has successfully exited investments in London Luton and 2i Aeroporti, and recently became the largest shareholder in Heathrow.

Orani stated that AFCO is an ideal partner for Ardian as it seeks to broaden its presence in the US and the Americas, focusing on acquiring strategic infrastructure assets with proven success.

Teresa Mattamouros, managing director at Goldman Sachs Alternatives, remarked that the investment in AFCO showcased the unique access to compelling infrastructure opportunities through their One Goldman Sachs approach. She wished the AFCO management team and Ardian success in their future endeavors.

Chuck Stipantic, CEO of AFCO, noted the implementation of several value creation initiatives, including innovative financing structures that have enabled investment in existing facilities and strategic portfolio expansion. He expressed excitement about the new partnership with Ardian, looking forward to leveraging their expertise in essential infrastructure, particularly in transportation and aviation, to further grow AFCO.