Watch for 'Garmin AT,' Coming This Fall

Garmin International Inc. dropped 'the bomb' late Thursday: they have a definitive agreement to acquire UPS Aviation Technologies, Inc. for $38 million in cash.

The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the third quarter. Once consummated, UPS Aviation Technologies will change its name to Garmin AT, Inc., and will continue operations as a wholly owned subsidiary of Garmin International.

UPS Aviation Technologies, headquartered in Salem (OR), designs and manufactures multiple lines of communications, navigation and surveillance products for general aviation and air transport customers. The company employs about 150 people.

UPS Aviation Technologies is known for its innovation in the development of Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) technology, leading the industry in the application of that technology to enhance flight safety. It currently is participating in the Federal Aviation Administration demonstration programs with ADS-B, including the Safe Flight 21 and Alaskan Capstone programs.

In addition, UPS Aviation Technologies' CNX80 GPS navigation receiver recently became the first integrated panel-mounted product certified by the FAA for primary navigation using the FAA's Wide Area Augmentation System, or WAAS. UPS Aviation Technologies is widely recognized throughout the aviation community for its LORAN technology as well as its panel-mounted Global Positioning Systems, multi-function display and other aviation navigation and communication technologies.

"We are pleased with the agreement to acquire UPS Aviation Technologies," said Dr. Min Kao, president of Garmin International. "The company's strong product line, ADS-B technology, an energized team and a loyal customer base will provide our combined organization with a stronger basis for serving both OEM and retrofit customers with state-of-the-art avionics that enhance the safety, productivity and enjoyment of flying."

"Garmin is uniquely positioned to accelerate the marketing and acceptance of ADS-B and other recent technology advances in general aviation," said Tom Weidemeyer, president of UPS Airlines. "This announcement recognizes the hard work and dedication of all employees at UPS Aviation Technologies. Garmin is purchasing a talented workforce that has proven its ability to bring new products to market. Our decision to sell is based on the fact that our airline has matured and ongoing development and marketing of aviation technology is not part of the long-term strategic direction of UPS."

FMI: www.garmin.com