Latham & Watkins Advises Vista on $600M Investment from RRJ Capital.

Vista, the global leader in private aviation, has secured an equity investment of US$600 million through a definitive agreement. The deal is led by RRJ Capital, a prominent Asian investment firm, and is aimed at optimizing Vista’s capital structure, reducing its debt, and enhancing its free cash flow generation.

This strategic investment is designed to fuel Vista’s long-term growth, helping the company solidify its position as a key player in the private aviation market.

Latham & Watkins served as the legal advisor for Vista in this complex transaction, further underscoring the deal’s significance.

Strengthening Vista's Financial Position and Deleveraging Strategy

The new investment is part of Vista’s broader deleveraging strategy, aimed at enhancing its financial stability and ensuring future growth. The funds will allow Vista to reduce its indebtedness, positioning the company for increased flexibility and improved operational efficiency.

By optimizing its capital structure, Vista aims to improve its overall financial health, preparing the company for expansion in a competitive market.

This strategic move highlights Vista’s commitment to financial resilience, aiming to reduce reliance on debt while simultaneously increasing available capital for growth and innovation.

Key Leaders Discuss the Investment

Thomas Flohr, Vista’s Founder and Chairman, expressed his excitement about the partnership, calling the deal a strong endorsement of the company’s strategy and long-term goals. Flohr emphasized the importance of the partnership with RRJ Capital and the consortium of investors, saying it would provide the company with both capital and valuable expertise to navigate future growth opportunities.

 “This announcement is a strong endorsement of our strategy and long-term vision for the future while also providing us with great partners for years to come. We are excited to welcome RRJ Capital and the rest of the consortium to join our existing carefully curated investor base, and look forward to working with Richard and the rest of the team to support Vista’s next phase of growth.”

Flohr’s comments reflect a strategic vision that blends financial strengthening with broader market expansion. His confidence in RRJ Capital and the consortium suggests a shared commitment to supporting Vista’s continued success in the private aviation industry.

RRJ Capital Joins Vista's Expanding Investor Base

The consortium of investors includes RRJ Capital, Andalusian Private Capital, and additional unnamed participants. This expanded investor base brings a wide range of expertise, ensuring Vista has the necessary resources to continue its global expansion.

Richard Ong, CEO and Founder of RRJ Capital, commented on the investment, noting that the partnership would enhance Vista’s position as the leading private jet company in the world.

Ong’s statement highlights RRJ Capital’s long-term commitment to supporting Vista's ongoing innovation and expansion in the private aviation market, reinforcing the strong potential for future growth.

“RRJ are very pleased to become a long-term partner to Vista, the leading private jet company in the world. With over 20 years of industry innovation, and a global presence across all markets, this strategic investment in Vista marks an exciting new chapter in our shared journey.”

Continued Support from Long-Term Investors

Alongside the new investors, Vista’s long-standing shareholders, including Rhône Group LLC, will remain integral to the company’s financial foundation. Rhône Group has been a key partner to Vista over the years, and its continued involvement signals stability in Vista’s investor relations.

With strong support from both new and existing investors, Vista is poised to continue its growth trajectory, leveraging the expertise and resources of its investor base to solidify its position as an industry leader.

Latham & Watkins played a crucial role in advising Vista during this landmark investment. The transaction is also being facilitated by a cross-border team from Latham, led by London partners Sanjev Warna-kulasuriya and Hector Sants, with associates Jia Yan Ng, Natalie Lam, and Joanne Amos.

New York partners Keith Halverstam and Andrew Baker are also involved, alongside associates Nick Gonzalez and Samuel Niles, and Dubai partner Eyad Latif, with associates Farah El-Masri and Michael Hammond. Additionally, advice was provided on tax matters by New York partners Diana Doyle and Bora Bozkurt.

This team’s expertise was essential in navigating the complex legal aspects of the deal and ensuring Vista's interests were protected as it moved forward with securing this major investment.

Vista Global is a leading global aviation group founded by Thomas Flohr in 2004, offering premium private jet services through subsidiaries like VistaJet, XO, and JetEdge. With a fleet of Bombardier aircraft, Vista provides services including private jet charters, aircraft management, and membership programs across over 180 countries.

The company prioritizes safety, luxury service, and sustainability in its operations. Vista is committed to industry innovation and growth, underpinned by Flohr’s leadership and vision for expanding the future of private aviation.

Latham & Watkins LLP is a leading global law firm known for its expertise in corporate, litigation, and transactional law. With over 2,000 attorneys in 14 countries, the firm advises clients across a wide range of industries, including technology, healthcare, finance, and energy.

Founded in 1934, Latham & Watkins is renowned for its work with emerging companies, offering legal solutions for startups and growth-stage businesses. The firm’s Emerging Companies & Growth team helps navigate complex legal matters related to business formation, financing, and scaling, making it a trusted partner for innovative companies worldwide.

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