Custom Control Concepts

Established in 1998, Custom Control Concepts (CCC) carved a niche in the aerospace sector by specializing in digital in-flight entertainment (IFE) and cabin management systems (CMS) for the VIP and head-of-state aircraft market. The company's business model revolves around designing, engineering, manufacturing, and certifying these highly customized systems for a clientele that operates private, corporate, and VIP aircraft, including a wide range of Boeing and Airbus models, as well as business jets and helicopters. In April 2017, the operating assets of CCC were acquired by Astronics Corporation, a supplier of advanced technologies to the aerospace and defense industries, for approximately $10.2 million. This acquisition integrated CCC into Astronics' Aerospace segment, aiming to leverage synergies with another subsidiary, PGA Avionics, to bolster their combined offerings in the VVIP market.

Custom Control Concepts operates from a 65,000-square-foot facility near Seattle, Washington, where it handles all design and manufacturing in-house. This vertical integration allows for the development and production of hyper-personalized systems tailored to each client's aircraft. The company's product line is extensive, covering all aspects of cabin control and entertainment. Offerings include high-definition audio and video on demand (AVOD), integration with personal devices like iPads, real-time 3D moving maps, and environmental controls for lighting, temperature, and window shades. CCC distinguishes itself by providing fully digital audio and video distribution systems and utilizing 3D manufacturing for lighter components, such as composite speakers that are 55% lighter than traditionally machined ones. The firm's systems are installed on over 150 unique VIP aircraft, demonstrating a significant track record in the luxury aviation space.

The company's target market is the high-end private and corporate aviation sector, serving owners of large luxury aircraft who demand sophisticated and reliable cabin environments. Revenue is generated through the sale and installation of these bespoke IFE and CMS packages. Prior to its acquisition by Astronics, CCC was a portfolio company of Sorenson Capital Partners, indicating a history of private equity backing. The acquisition by Astronics (NASDAQ: ATRO) aimed to enhance Astronics' position in the VVIP aircraft market by combining CCC's specialized technologies and customer relationships with Astronics' broader portfolio of aerospace products. Keywords: cabin management systems, in-flight entertainment, VIP aircraft, aerospace technology, CMS, IFE, private aviation, corporate jets, digital avionics, cabin control, VVIP aircraft, luxury aircraft interiors, Astronics Corporation, aircraft modification, 3D moving map, audio video on demand, aircraft systems integration, custom avionics, head-of-state aircraft, business aviation, helicopter avionics, Boeing business jet