Pending a judgment against Associated Air Center that could total as much as $49 million, the Dallas Love Field-based company is already planning an appeal. In the suit, brought by Tary Network and Citadella International Group in a Dallas district court, attorneys claimed that Associated and related entities engaged in a breach of contract “that led to tens of millions in losses for the jet owners, including lost profits, out-of-pocket damages and lost value.”
A jury verdict on February 28 found in favor of Tary Network and Citadella International, and a subsequent judgment with regard to the exact amount of damages is expected within the next 60 days. A source at Associated Air Center expressed surprise, however, that deposits of $2 million each to secure slots for two Boeing Business Jet cabin completions could possibly translate to a $49 million award.
In a statement issued on Friday, Associated said it “strongly disagrees with the verdict,” adding that “significant rulings in the case prevented the jury from considering key facts and led to this disappointing outcome and unjustified damages award.” Associated said it will appeal and expects the verdict to be overturned.
The center has been in business since 1948, recently delivered its 23rd BBJ green completion and will begin the interior completion of a new Boeing 747-8 this year.