Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire privately held Southern Air Holdings, Inc., a provider of intercontinental and domestic air cargo services, in an all-cash, debt-free transaction valued at $110 million.

Southern Air is the parent company of Worldwide Air Logistics Group and its two operating subsidiaries, Southern Air, Inc. and Florida West International Airways, Inc.

“We are very pleased to announce a strategically compelling, highly complementary and immediately accretive acquisition of Southern Air,” said William J. Flynn, president and chief executive officer of Atlas Air Worldwide. “And we are eager to capitalize on the substantial opportunities that the transaction will provide, especially 777 and 737 aircraft operations.

“The result,” he added, “will be a more diversified and profitable company offering access to the widest range of modern, efficient aircraft, together with a broader mix of services and a greater scale and global footprint that will drive significant value for our customers and shareholders.”

“We very much look forward to joining the Atlas Air family of companies,” said Daniel J. McHugh, chief executive officer of Southern Air Holdings. “We share the same commitment to providing superior customer service via our exceptional team of aviation professionals. And Southern Air will now have a strong and viable parent to enable us to continue to grow.”

The transaction provides Atlas Air Worldwide immediate entry into 777 and 737 aircraft operating platforms, with potential for developing additional business with existing and new customers of both companies.

Southern Air’s main operating company currently flies five Boeing 777-200Fs and five Boeing 737-400Fs under flight services agreements with DHL Express.

The platforms provided by these aircraft will augment Atlas Air Worldwide’s ability to offer customers the broadest array of aircraft and operating services for domestic, regional and international applications, according to a company statement.

Atlas Air Worldwide and Southern Air have complementary operations. The transaction will enhance Atlas Air Worldwide’s position as a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services.