Company Background

Driving Innovation in Avionics and Aftermarket Aviation Services

As industry leaders in next-generation avionics and aftermarket services, FreeFlight Systems and Flight Data Systems are renowned global brands with a strong unified leadership team. Their dedication to advancing technology and maintaining the highest standards of quality and reliability continues to drive their success and influence in the aviation industry, supporting a wide range of aircraft operations.

Since its inception in Texas in 2001, FreeFlight Systems has committed itself to pioneering avionics technology that bolsters flight safety and guarantees unparalleled reliability—essential elements of successful flight operations. The company consistently sets benchmarks within the industry through groundbreaking innovations such as the first certified WAAS/GPS receiver and a compliant UAT ADS-B system. Currently, FreeFlight continues to spearhead advancements in aerospace tech with a focus on SBAS/GNSS sensors, radar altimeters, flight management systems, alongside other advanced avionics tailored for NextGen applications across various aircraft types including commercial airlines, private jets, and helicopters.

Established in 1990, Flight Data Systems provides holistic solutions encompassing data acquisition processes along with efficient management of flight data. With over 300 clients worldwide—from business operators to government entities—their impact is extensive. Their mission centers around customer satisfaction driven by continuous innovation evident throughout their product lineup which includes state-of-the-art Modular Acquisition Units, SENTRY Recorders, Hand-held Multipurpose Interface GSE recorder data download tool and the leading Readout Compliant services for cockpit voice and flight data systems.

Both companies became integral members of the ACR Group portfolio following their acquisition in 2018. They operate from their headquarters in Irving, Texas, while maintaining operational bases internationally, including London. Their unwavering commitment to innovation has solidified FreeFlight Systems and Flight Data Systems as trusted partners, respected by customers around the globe—from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to end-users alike.

FreeFlight Systems and Flight Data Systems stand out as leading authorities, celebrated for their cutting-edge avionics solutions and visionary outlook on the future of global airspace.

Executive Leadership Team

Anthony Rios

President

Anthony Rios brings over 20 years of aviation technology expertise to his role, ...

Shane LaPlante

Vice President Services

Shane LaPlante brings over 30 years of rich experience in the aviation industry ...

Behlul Poonawalla

VP Products & Services

Behlul Poonawalla brings over 15 years of experience in product development, pro...

Scott Warner - Vice President of Business Operations

Vice President of Business Operations

Scott Warner brings over a decade of aviation industry experience to his role as...

Michael Schmidt

VP of Sales & Marketing

With over 25 years of experience in the aviation industry, Michael Schmidt bring...

David Meek, Vice President Engineering

Vice President of Engineering

David Meek serves as Vice President of Engineering, bringing over two decades of...

Jennifer Weiss

Sr. Director of Customer Success

Jennifer Weiss brings over 26 years of avionics industry experience to her role,...

Robert Bailey

Director of Operations

Robert Bailey brings a wealth of global executive experience to FreeFlight Syste...

Susanne Shaw

Director of Quality

Susanne Shaw is dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of quality and relia...

Jeff Jones

Director of Certification Programs 

Jeff Jones brings over 30 years of diverse experience in engineering, supplier m...

Receive updates by subscribing for our newsletter.