Dear Friends and Colleagues,

Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in Universal’s journey. After more than 65 years of proudly supporting you and the global business aviation community, I’m excited to share that we’ve entered into an agreement to sell the Universal® Trip Support Services Division to World Fuel Services (World Fuel), a World Kinect company.

This agreement includes the Universal Weather and Aviation, Inc. brand – a name long synonymous with excellence in trip support.

The sale does not include our Universal Aviation FBO network or Air Culinaire Worldwide catering, both of which my family and I will continue to lead and grow.

The transaction is expected to close in approximately 60 days. We’re confident this move unlocks exciting new opportunities for our team, our customers, and the future of trip support.

Benefits for Trip Support Customers

World Fuel is the ideal partner to carry the Universal Trip Support legacy forward. With deep experience in the trip support space, World Fuel understands the unique value Universal delivers – and is committed to preserving the high-touch service experience our customers expect.

The Universal Trip Support division – including its people, teams, and technology – will transition to World Fuel and continue to operate under the Universal name, maintaining its distinct identity and trusted brand within World Fuel.

With the added strength and resources of World Kinect, Universal Trip Support will be well-positioned to support customers well into the future.

Craig Mabray, Senior Vice President Trip Support Services, will continue leading Universal Trip Support. Most of the Universal Account Management team, including EVP Sales & Marketing, Jonathan Howells, will transition, too.

Benefits for Universal Aviation and Air Culinaire Worldwide Customers

The sale of Universal Trip Support allows us to sharpen our strategic focus and increase investment in the continued growth of both the Universal Aviation FBO network and the Air Culinaire Worldwide catering network.

That means more locations, upgraded facilities, enhanced equipment, and better technology – all aimed at elevating the experience for our customers around the globe.

Following the close of the sale, Universal Aviation and Air Culinaire Worldwide will continue working closely with Universal Trip Support.

Looking Ahead

While this is a significant change, our commitment to the success of your missions remains as strong as ever.

Ralph, the entire Universal leadership team, and I – together with our colleagues at World Fuel – are fully engaged and available to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.

We’re confident that under World Fuel, Universal Trip Support will continue to build on the legacy we’ve created together. At the same time, we’re excited to focus even more deeply on growing our FBO and catering networks to better serve your missions worldwide.

Thank you for your continued trust, loyalty, and support. We look forward to what’s next – and to continuing our journey together.

For more information on this, please visit our online resource center.

Warmest regards,

Greg Evans
Chairman, Universal