ATC Aviation and Pacific Feeder Services have joined forces, signing a deal in Santiago de Chile which took three years to negotiate.

The companies say the acquisition will combine the strengths of both companies, increase global presence and create a portfolio that can benefit from growth over the long term.

PFS will soon operate under the ATC name, and until the transition has been completed, the partners will have a joint presence in the market.

Regional director Mark Thiermann says: “PFS and ATC are now one combined company in South America. We will direct all our efforts towards ensuring that our customers will benefit from our new group. With global reach and top local expertise, we are in a good position when it comes to supporting our partner airlines’ growth.”

PFS says the experienced team will remain at their disposal and continue business as usual, but customers will benefit from the strengths and reliability of both companies, as well as access to the international network with branches in Europe, the USA, Canada, Africa and Asia.

ATC chief executive officer, Ingo Zimmer says: “Together we will achieve strong and complementary positions in South America’s key export markets, creating a broader and more balanced portfolio. This purchase is a further step to complete our mission to become the world leading cargo GSSA.”

In South America, ATC Aviation/Pacific Feeder Services represent Aeromexico, Aerolineas Argentinas, American Airlines, CAL Cargo Airlines, Cargolux, Ethiopian Airlines, GOL Linhas Aereas, Silkway, Korean Air, Peruvian Airlines, Tame Airlines, Saudia Cargo, Royal Air Maroc and Solar Cargo.