Dauntless Air acquired by Ridgewood Infrastructure

Investment firm Ridgewood Infrastructure has announced its purchase of US-based aerial firefighting firm Dauntless Air.

The takeover, which specializes in the operation of single-engine water scoopers, provides wildfire response services under a number of long-term contracts with government agencies across the USA, both at a state and federal level.

Following the acquisition, Dauntless will continue to be led by its current CEO, Brett L’Esperance, and the company’s existing management team.

Ridgewood have stated that they intend to support continued investment in Dauntless’s “operational capabilities, customer partnerships, and strategic growth initiatives,” while also pursuing opportunities to expand its emergency management infrastructure through “fleet growth, adjacent service offerings, and selective acquisitions.”

Wildfire response has become an increasingly vital priority in the USA, as fire seasons grow longer and become more severe. Ridgewood’s investment in Dauntless Air will support its growth and ability to continue to perform its valuable role fighting fires as demand grows.

“We are looking forward to building on that reputation in partnership with Ridgewood, which shares our commitment to continuously improving our capabilities, investing in our people and providing our customers the highest level of service,” said L'Esperance.

Air Tractor Holdings recently acquired Thrush Aircraft, a manufacturer of aircraft for the aerial firefighting and agricultural sectors.