-National Jet Systems (NJS), the Australian regional carrier, has purchased a large minority stake in Ireland's CityJet for a sum estimated at between Ir£4 million ($5.8 million) and Ir£6 million. The holding is understood to be in excess of 40%. CityJet will still look to expand its relationship with Air France, possibly into a franchise deal.
-US components specialist Crane has appealed against the dismissal of its court action against the merger of BFGoodrich and Coltec Industries. Stamford, Connecticut-based Crane claims it had an agreement with Coltec preventing the merger, and wants its own offer for Coltec - valued at $1.45 billion - to be considered. A US court found against Crane last month, but the company responded with an appeal due to be heard on 1 March.
-Florida-based airport services specialist Aircraft Service International (ASIG) has bought Ground Aviation Handling of the UK. The acquisition of the London Heathrow-based passenger handling operation, will boost the European presence of ASIG.
Source: Flight International
