DroneAcharya Aerial Innovations Ltd, a leading industrial drone solutions provider, is set to acquire a substantial 76% ownership in Aerophile Academy Pvt Ltd, a distinguished drone pilot training company certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The strategic move signifies DroneAcharya’s foray into South India’s drone pilot training sector, expanding its footprint beyond its existing operations in Central, North, and West India.
About DroneAcharya and Aerophile Academy:
DroneAcharya Aerial Innovations Ltd has positioned itself as a prominent player in the industrial drone solutions space. As part of its growth strategy, the company is now venturing into the realm of drone pilot training through the acquisition of a majority stake in Aerophile Academy Pvt Ltd. Under the leadership of Krishna Shrivatsa, Aerophile Academy has earned DGCA certification as a Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO) and operates from Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Strategic Move and Ownership Structure:
The board at DroneAcharya has formalized its intent to acquire a significant 76% stake in Aerophile Academy, as revealed in regulatory filings. This strategic move aligns with DroneAcharya’s commitment to diversifying its operations and establishing a strong presence in the drone pilot training sector in South India. Post-acquisition, Aerophile Academy will retain a 24% stake in the company, ensuring a collaborative approach to furthering the objectives of both entities.
DroneAcharya’s financial performance reflects a robust trajectory, with its scale reaching Rs 20.9 crore for the half-year ending September 2023, marking substantial growth from Rs 1.9 crore in the corresponding period the previous year. The company also reported profits of Rs 3.96 crore during the same period, indicating a positive outlook and operational efficiency.
Conclusion and Market Position:
The acquisition of Aerophile Academy reinforces DroneAcharya’s commitment to strategic expansion and diversification. With its growing presence in the drone solutions market and the recent acquisition of an export order for Defense FPV drones, DroneAcharya is poised for continued growth. Having entered the public market in December 2022, the company has demonstrated significant market appreciation, currently boasting a market cap of approximately Rs 430 crore or $51 million. The move into drone pilot training solidifies DroneAcharya’s position as a versatile player in the evolving landscape of drone technology and solutions.
