Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc.
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Mar 14, 2025.
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A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Mar 14, 2025
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-03-20.
0001628280-24-012213
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-03-14.
0001628280-25-012821
Item 1A. Risk FactorsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 291 previous paragraphs and 282 current paragraphs.
230 unchanged; 42 reworded; 7 added; 16 removed; 3 previous and 3 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (7)
Current report
We have identified two material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, which we are in the process of, and are focused on, remediating. The material weaknesses are related to the accounting for complex transactions within our financial statement closing and reporting process, and maintaining and monitoring user access to certain IT systems contributing to our financial reporting.
Current report
While we remediated substantial parts of these pre-existing material weaknesses throughout the year, we concluded that we may be exposed to the risk of material misstatement in our financial reports by a deficiency in our precision of the review of the inputs provided by external technical accounting experts, as well as the assignment and monitoring of user access in some of our IT applications.
Current report
We have already begun the process of, and are focused on, increasing the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting and remediating the material weakness, including:
Current report
•improving the workflow for complex accounting transactions to include multiple levels of review and increase the time available to thoroughly evaluate the application of GAAP and improve the precision of review of assumptions made within third party accounting experts’ work product and
Current report
•restricting privileged access in our general ledger and account reconciliation applications to ensure the strict enforcement of workflows following the four-eyes principle, and
Current report
If our estimates or judgments relating to our critical accounting policies prove to be incorrect or financial reporting standards change, our results of operations could be adversely affected.
Current report
Additionally, we will regularly monitor our compliance with applicable financial reporting standards and review new pronouncements and drafts thereof that are relevant to us. As a result of new standards and changes to existing standards we might be required to change our accounting policies, alter our operational policies and implement new or enhance existing systems so that they reflect new or amended financial reporting standards, or we may be required to restate our published financial statements. Such changes to existing standards or changes in their interpretation may have an adverse effect on our reputation, business, financial position and profit.
Removed paragraphs (16)
Previous report
•Our liquidity position raises substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.
Previous report
We are highly dependent on the services of Mr. Timothy Sheehy, our Chief Executive Officer, Co-Founder and a Director of Bridger, who is currently running for a seat in the U.S. Senate.
Previous report
We are highly dependent on the services of Mr. Sheehy, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, Co-Founder and Director. On June 27, 2023, Mr. Sheehy announced his entrance into the 2024 race for the U.S. Senate for the State of Montana. During his candidacy, Mr. Sheehy has continued to serve as our Chief Executive Officer with the continued support of Bridger’s existing management team, and Mr. Sheehy has not publicly announced a specific intention of resigning as our Chief Executive Officer. However, in the event that Mr. Sheehy is elected to serve as a U.S. Senator for the State of Montana, Mr. Sheehy would be required to resign as an officer and director of the Company pursuant to certain conflict of interest rules contained in the Senate Code of Official Conduct. The loss of Mr. Sheehy as an officer and director of the Company could adversely affect our business because this could make it more difficult to, among other things, compete with other market participants, manage our operations, execute our growth strategy and retain existing customers or cultivate new ones.
Previous report
Although Mr. Sheehy continues to spend significant time with Bridger and remain highly active in our management during his candidacy, he has not devoted his full time and attention to Bridger. Mr. Sheehy has spent, and expects to continue to spend, time campaigning for the U.S. Senate seat.
Previous report
Additionally, Mr. Sheehy and we may be the targets of one or more negative media campaigns in connection with Mr. Sheehy’s U.S. Senate campaign. Public perception of, or news related to, Mr. Sheehy or his U.S. Senate campaign may adversely affect our brand, relationship with customers, suppliers, employees or other of our stakeholders or our standing in the industry, any of which could materially impair our business and results of operations.
Previous report
Our management team has successfully grown and exited prior business ventures, including Ascent Vision Technologies by our founders, Mr. Matthew Sheehy and Mr. Timothy Sheehy. Any past experience or performance of our management team and their respective affiliates is not a guarantee of success with respect to Bridger.
Previous report
Additionally, to maintain compliance with certain contractual structural inspection and analysis requirements under our agreements with the USFS, on January 5, 2021 we entered into Amendment 8 (SSLMP) (the “SSLMP Amendment”) to the LAS Purchase Agreement, for Viking’s provision of a Supplemental Structural Life Management Program. Viking agreed to provide us with a 5-year subscription service to a Super Scooper life management program based on the applicable FAA advisory material related to fatigue management and supplemental structural inspection programs, for which we pay a fixed subscription price. Viking does not have a termination for convenience right in respect of the services rendered pursuant to the SSLMP Amendment. If such services are nonetheless terminated or if Viking ceases to perform its obligations in respect thereof, or if we are unable to renew such services, then our business operations could be significantly disrupted and our results of operations could be adversely affected.
Previous report
Management consulted with bond counsel on the impact of covenant violations and proactively developed a cost reduction plan, and began implementing the plan in November 2023, to help remedy the anticipated covenant breaches in 2024. However, this plan is in progress and there is no assurance that management will be able diligently prosecute the remediation plan to completion. The uncertainty regarding the company’s ability to diligently prosecute the remediation plan to completion and the potential impact on the bonds maturity as a result of the anticipated debt covenant violations at subsequent compliance dates or failure to make required interest payments, could result in the Series 2022 Bonds becoming immediately due and payable, which raises substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern as of the date our financial statements are issued.
Previous report
Our results of operations may be adversely affected by other-than-temporary impairment charges related to our marketable securities.
Previous report
We make investments in marketable securities classified as available-for-sale debt securities, consisting of commercial paper, corporate bonds and notes, and government securities. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had $1.0 million and $55.0 million, respectively, of investments in debt securities classified as available-for-sale with short-term maturities of less than one year and carried at fair value. We are exposed to the risk that the issuers of these debt securities may experience significant deterioration in credit quality which could impact the market value of such issuer’s securities. We periodically evaluate our debt securities to determine if market value declines are other-than-temporary. If a decline is determined to be other-than-temporary, the credit related portion of the impairment would be recognized as an adjustment to income.
Previous report
Our liquidity position raises substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.
Previous report
The Company has an operating loss, net loss and negative operating cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2023, and the Company is not in compliance, or is projected to not be in compliance, with certain financial covenants associated with the Series 2022 Bonds during the next 12 months. Additionally, based on projected cash use, management anticipates that without additional cash funding the Company will not have sufficient cash on hand to achieve compliance or to fund operations within the next 12 months, until the Company begins to collect cash from its seasonal firefighting operations in 2024.
Previous report
Management intends to improve the Company’s near-term cash position through a combination of cost reduction measures and the raising of funds through a number of potential avenues, including additional sales of our common stock through our at-the-market offering and issuing additional shares of common stock pursuant to our shelf registration statement. These sources of additional working capital are not currently assured, and consequently do not sufficiently mitigate the risks and uncertainties disclosed above. Our ability to raise additional funds will depend on, among other factors, financial, economic and market conditions, many of which are outside of our control and there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain additional funding on satisfactory terms or at all.
Previous report
Current and anticipated noncompliance with financial covenants and uncertainty regarding the Company’s ability to diligently prosecute the cost reduction plan and to raise additional cash funding raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern within 12 months following the issuance date of the consolidated financial statements as of and for the period ended December 31, 2023.
Previous report
We have identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, which we are in the process of, and are focused on, remediating. The first material weakness is related to properly accounting for complex transactions within our financial statement closing and reporting process. The second material weakness arises from our failure to design and maintain effective IT general controls over the IT systems used within the processing of key financial transactions. Specifically, we did not design and maintain user access controls to ensure appropriate segregation of duties and that adequately restrict user and privileged access to financial applications, programs, and data to appropriate company personnel. Additionally, we identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting related to the period end account reconciliation review and entity level financial statement review controls which did not operate within a sufficient level of precision.
Previous report
In addition, the BTO Stockholders collectively beneficially owned 19.7% (assuming no shares of Series A Preferred Stock have been converted) of the outstanding Common Stock as of December 31, 2023. The BTO Stockholders may also exercise influence over the business through their rights under the Stockholder Agreement, pursuant to which, among other matters, the BTO stockholders can nominate up to two (2) directors for election to the Board and require at least one director nominated by the BTO Stockholders to be included on any committee of the Board, in each case subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Stockholders Agreement.
Reworded paragraphs (42)
Previous wording
•There is a seasonal fluctuation in the need to fight forest fires based upon location and a substantial majority of our revenue is currently concentrated in the Western United States. As a result, our operating results may fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter and from year to year.
Current wording
•There is a seasonal fluctuation in the need to fight forest fires based upon location.
Previous wording
•We depend significantly on government customers, which subjects us to risks including early termination, audits, investigations, sanctions and penalties. We are also subject to regulations applicable to government contractors which increase our operating costs and if we fail to comply, could result in the termination of our contracts with government entities.
Current wording
•We depend significantly on government customers, which subjects us to risks including early termination, audits, investigations, sanctions and penalties.
Previous wording
•We may require substantial additional funding to finance our operations and growth strategy, but adequate additional financing may not be available when we need it, on acceptable terms, or at all, and our ability to pursue equity financings may depend in part, on the market price of our shares of common stock, $0.0001 par value per share (“Common Stock”).
Current wording
•We may require substantial additional funding to finance our operations and growth strategy, but adequate additional financing may not be available when we need it, on acceptable terms, or at all.
Previous wording
The following risk factors and other information included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K should be carefully considered. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem less significant may also affect our business operations or financial results. If any of the following risks actually occur, our stock price, business, operating results and financial condition could be materially adversely affected and the market price of our securities could decline, causing our equityholders to lose all or a portion of their investment.
Current wording
The following risk factors and other information included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K should be carefully considered. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or that we currently deem less significant may also affect our business operations or financial results. If any of the following risks actually occur, our stock price, business, operating results and financial condition could be materially adversely affected and the market price of our securities could decline, causing our equity holders to lose all or a portion of their investment.
Previous wording
The operation of aircraft is subject to various risks, and demand for firefighting services, may in the future be impacted by accidents or other safety issues regardless of whether such accidents or issues involve Bridger flights, our aircraft operators, or aircraft flown by our aircraft operators. Air transportation hazards, such as adverse weather conditions and fire and mechanical failures, may result in death or injury to personnel and passengers which could impact client confidence in a particular aircraft type. Safety statistics for air travel are reported by multiple parties, including the Department of Transportation (the “DOT”) and National Transportation Safety Board, and are often separated into categories of transportation. Because our aerial firefighting services include a variety of aircraft, our clients may have a hard time determining how safe aerial firefighting services are, and their confidence in aerial firefighting may be impacted by, among other things, the classification of accidents in ways that reflect poorly on aerial firefighting services or the methods that aerial firefighting services utilize.
Current wording
The operation of aircraft is subject to various risks, and demand for firefighting services, may in the future be impacted by accidents or other safety issues regardless of whether such accidents or issues involve Bridger flights, our aircraft operators, or aircraft flown by our aircraft operators. Air transportation hazards, such as adverse weather conditions, fire and mechanical failures and the operation of third-party drones or other aircraft in the same air space as Bridger may operate, may result in death or injury to personnel and passengers which could impact client confidence in a particular aircraft type. Safety statistics for air travel are reported by multiple parties, including the Department of Transportation (the “DOT”) and National Transportation Safety Board, and are often separated into categories of transportation. Because our aerial firefighting services include a variety of aircraft, our clients may have a hard time determining how safe aerial firefighting services are, and their confidence in aerial firefighting may be impacted by, among other things, the classification of accidents in ways that reflect poorly on aerial firefighting services or the methods that aerial firefighting services utilize.
Previous wording
Our revenues are disproportionately derived from the services of our Super Scoopers. The unavailability of one or more of our Super Scoopers could result in a significant reduction in our revenues and adversely affect our results of operations. For example, in 2022, we experienced a delay with the delivery of our fifth and sixth Super Scooper aircraft. We originally expected that the fifth Super Scooper and sixth Super Scooper would be delivered in May and July 2022, respectively, but ultimately, the delivery and subsequent preparation for deployment of the fifth Super Scooper was delayed until September 2022 and the sixth Super Scooper was not delivered until February 2023. As a result of such delays, our results of operations for the 2022 wildfire season were materially affected. Additionally, only pilots with significant flight hours can operate Super Scoopers, and there is a limited number of available pilots due to the demanding levels of training. There is a limited number of Super Scoopers in operation globally. Certain replacement parts may be unavailable or difficult to obtain, and we may be unable to hire sufficient mechanics trained to service Super Scoopers.
Current wording
Our revenues are disproportionately derived from the services of our Super Scoopers. The unavailability of one or more of our Super Scoopers could result in a significant reduction in our revenues and adversely affect our results of operations. For example, in 2022, we experienced a delay with the delivery of our fifth and sixth Super Scooper aircraft. We originally expected that the fifth Super Scooper and sixth Super Scooper would be delivered in May and July 2022, respectively, but ultimately, the delivery and subsequent preparation for deployment of the fifth Super Scooper was delayed until September 2022 and the sixth Super Scooper was not delivered until February 2023. As a result of such delays, our results of operations for the 2022 wildfire season were materially affected. Additionally, only pilots with significant flight hours can operate Super Scoopers, and there are a limited number of available pilots due to the demanding levels of training. There are a limited number of Super Scoopers in operation globally. Certain replacement parts may be unavailable or difficult to obtain, and we may be unable to hire sufficient mechanics trained to service Super Scoopers.
Previous wording
We are currently able to obtain adequate supplies of aircraft fuel but we cannot predict the future availability. Natural disasters (including hurricanes or similar events in the U.S. Southeast and on the Gulf Coast, where we have performed our aerial firefighting services), political disruptions or military conflicts involving oil-producing countries, economic sanctions imposed against oil-producing countries or specific industry participants, changes in fuel-related governmental policy, the strength of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies, changes in the cost to transport or store petroleum products, changes in access to petroleum product pipelines and terminals, speculation in the energy futures markets, changes in aircraft fuel production capacity, environmental concerns and other unpredictable events may result in fuel supply shortages or distribution challenges in the future. Any of these factors or events could cause a disruption in or increased demands on oil production, refinery operations, pipeline capacity or terminal access and possibly result in diminished availability of aircraft fuel supply for our business. The impact of such events may limit our ability to perform our aerial firefighting services, which could result in loss of revenue and adversely affect our ability to provide our services.
Current wording
We are currently able to obtain adequate supplies of aircraft fuel but we cannot predict the future availability. Natural disasters (including hurricanes or similar events in the U.S. Southeast and on the Gulf Coast, where we have performed our aerial firefighting services), political disruptions or military conflicts involving oil-producing countries, economic sanctions imposed against oil-producing countries or specific industry participants, changes in fuel-related governmental policy, the strength of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies, changes in the cost to transport or store petroleum products, changes in access to petroleum product pipelines and terminals, changes in relative tariff rates among nations, speculation in the energy futures markets, changes in aircraft fuel production capacity, environmental concerns and other unpredictable events may result in fuel supply shortages or distribution challenges in the future. Any of these factors or events could cause a disruption in or increased demands on oil production, refinery operations, pipeline capacity or terminal access and possibly result in diminished availability of aircraft fuel supply for our business. The impact of such events may limit our ability to perform our aerial firefighting services, which could result in loss of revenue and adversely affect our ability to provide our services.
Previous wording
Our success depends, in significant part, on the continued services of our senior management team and on our ability to attract, motivate, develop, and retain a sufficient number of other highly skilled personnel, including finance, marketing, sales, and technology and support personnel. We believe that the breadth and depth of our senior management team’s experience across multiple industries will be instrumental to our success. The loss of any one or more members of our senior management team, for any reason, including resignation or retirement, could impair our ability to execute our business strategy and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations. Additionally, our financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected if we are unable to attract and retain skilled employees to support our operations and growth. In particular, Mr. Timothy Sheehy, our Chief Executive Officer, Co-Founder and a Director of Bridger, will resign as Chief Executive Officer if he is elected to U.S. Senate, as further described in the risk factor immediately below.
Current wording
Our success depends, in significant part, on the continued services of our senior management team and on our ability to attract, motivate, develop and retain a sufficient number of other highly skilled personnel, including finance, marketing, sales and technology and support personnel. We believe that the breadth and depth of our senior management team’s experience across multiple industries will be instrumental to our success. The loss of any one or more members of our senior management team, for any reason, including resignation or retirement, could impair our ability to execute our business strategy and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, our financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected if we are unable to attract and retain skilled employees to support our operations and growth.
Previous wording
There is a seasonal fluctuation in the need to fight forest fires based upon location. A significant portion of our total revenue currently occurs during the second and third quarters of the year due to the North American fire season, and the intensity of the fire season varies from year to year. As a result, our operating results may fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter and from year to year.
Current wording
There is a seasonal fluctuation in the need to fight forest fires based upon location. A significant portion of our total revenue has historically occurred during the second and third quarters of the year due to the North American fire season, and the intensity of the fire season varies from year to year. As a result, our operating results may fluctuate significantly from quarter to quarter and from year to year.
Previous wording
Our quarterly and annual operating results may fluctuate significantly, which makes our future operating results difficult to predict and could cause our operating results to fall below expectations or any guidance we may provide. These fluctuations may occur due to a variety of factors, many of which are outside of our control, including but not limited to: forest fires tend to have a higher occurrence during the summer months and during times of drought, but are ultimately unpredictable; climate change and changes in global temperatures occur over time; unexpected weather patterns, natural disasters or other events that increase or decrease the rate or intensity of wildfires or impair our ability to perform firefighting services; changes in governmental regulations or in the status of our regulatory approvals or applications. The individual or cumulative effects of factors discussed above could result in large fluctuations and unpredictability in our quarterly and annual operating results. As a result, comparing our operating results on a period-to-period basis may not be meaningful or be a good indication of our current or future performance. For example, due to the condensed and less intense 2023 wildfire season, we experienced a decrease in demand for our wildfire surveillance, relief and suppression and aerial firefighting services and had less flight hours and standby days than prior years, which negatively impacted our results of operations for the 2023 wildfire season.
Current wording
Our quarterly and annual operating results may fluctuate significantly, which makes our future operating results difficult to predict and could cause our operating results to fall below expectations or any guidance we may provide. These fluctuations may occur due to a variety of factors, many of which are outside of our control, including but not limited to: forest fires tend to have a higher occurrence during the summer months and during times of drought, but are ultimately unpredictable; climate change and changes in global temperatures occur over time; unexpected weather patterns, natural disasters or other events that increase or decrease the rate or intensity of wildfires or impair our ability to perform firefighting services; changes in governmental regulations or in the status of our regulatory approvals or applications. The individual or cumulative effects of factors discussed above could result in large fluctuations and unpredictability in our quarterly and annual operating results. As a result, comparing our operating results on a period-to-period basis may not be meaningful or be a good indication of our current or future performance. For example, due to the condensed and less intense 2023 wildfire season, we experienced a decrease in demand for our wildfire surveillance, relief and suppression and aerial firefighting services and had less flight hours and standby days than prior years, which negatively impacted our results of operations for the 2023 wildfire season. Compared to an earlier start to the 2024 wildfire season, we experienced an increase in demand for our wildfire surveillance, relief and suppression and aerial firefighting services and had more flight hours and standby days than prior year, which positively impacted our results of operations for the 2024 wildfire season and there is no assurance that such increase in demand before the typical fire season will occur in future years.
Previous wording
We derive a substantial portion of our revenue from contracts with the U.S. government (accounting for approximately 72% and 96% of our total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively) and may enter into additional contracts with the U.S. or foreign governments in the future. This subjects us to statutes and regulations applicable to companies doing business with the government, including the FAA. These government contracts customarily contain provisions that give the government substantial rights and remedies, many of which are not typically found in commercial contracts and which are unfavorable to contractors. For instance, most U.S. government agencies include provisions that allow the government to unilaterally terminate or modify contracts for convenience, and in that event, the counterparty to the contract may generally recover only its incurred or committed costs and settlement expenses and profit on work completed prior to the termination. In addition, as a small business, we have been awarded certain government contracts based on our status under the applicable regulations of the Small Business Association. If we continue to expand and are unable to maintain this small business status, we may no longer be eligible to utilize the small business status to grow our business. If the government terminates a contract for default, the defaulting party may be liable for any extra costs incurred by the government in procuring undelivered items from another source.
Current wording
We derive a substantial portion of our revenue from contracts with the U.S. government (accounting for approximately 67% and 72% of our total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively) and may enter into additional contracts with the U.S. or foreign governments in the future. This subjects us to statutes and regulations applicable to companies doing business with the government, including the FAA. These government contracts customarily contain provisions that give the government substantial rights and remedies, many of which are not typically found in commercial contracts and which are unfavorable to contractors. For instance, most U.S. government agencies include provisions that allow the government to unilaterally terminate or modify contracts for convenience, and in that event, the counterparty to the contract may generally recover only its incurred or committed costs and settlement expenses and profit on work completed prior to the termination. In addition, as a small business, we have been awarded certain government contracts based on our status under the applicable regulations of the Small Business Association. If we continue to expand and are unable to maintain this small business status, we may no longer be eligible to utilize the small business status to grow our business. If the government terminates a contract for default, the defaulting party may be liable for any extra costs incurred by the government in procuring undelivered items from another source.
Previous wording
All of our federal and state government contracts (accounting for approximately 88% and 99% of our total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively) are subject to the annual approval of appropriations being made by the applicable state or federal legislative bodies to fund the expenditures under these contracts. In addition, government contracts normally contain additional requirements that may increase our costs of doing business, reduce our profits, and expose us to liability for failure to comply with these terms and conditions. These requirements include, for example:
Current wording
All of our federal and state government contracts (accounting for approximately 81% and 73% of our total revenue for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively) are subject to the annual approval of appropriations being made by the applicable state or federal legislative bodies to fund the expenditures under these contracts. In addition, government contracts normally contain additional requirements that may increase our costs of doing business, reduce our profits and expose us to liability for failure to comply with these terms and conditions. These requirements include, for example:
Previous wording
We depend significantly on U.S. government contracts, which often are only partially funded, subject to immediate termination, and heavily regulated and audited. The termination or failure to fund, or negative audit findings for, one or more of these contracts could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Current wording
We depend significantly on U.S. government contracts, which often are only partially funded, subject to immediate termination, and heavily regulated and audited. The interruption of or termination or failure to fund, or negative audit findings for, one or more of these contracts could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
Previous wording
Our U.S. government business also is subject to specific procurement regulations and a variety of socioeconomic and other requirements. These requirements, although customary in U.S. government contracts, increase our performance and compliance costs. These costs might increase in the future, thereby reducing our margins, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, the U.S. government has and may continue to implement initiatives focused on efficiencies, affordability and cost growth and other changes to its procurement practices. These initiatives and changes to procurement practices may change the way U.S. government contracts are solicited, negotiated and managed, which may affect whether and how we pursue opportunities to provide our products and services to the U.S. government, including the terms and conditions under which we do so, which may have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. For example, contracts awarded under the United States Department of Defense’s Other Transaction Authority for research and prototypes generally require cost-sharing and may not follow, or may follow only in part, standard U.S. government contracting practices and terms, such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation and Cost Accounting Standards.
Current wording
Our U.S. government business also is subject to specific procurement regulations and a variety of socioeconomic and other requirements. These requirements, although customary in U.S. government contracts, increase our performance and compliance costs. These costs might increase in the future, thereby reducing our margins, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, the U.S. government has and may continue to implement initiatives focused on efficiencies, affordability and cost growth and other changes to its procurement practices, such as those pursued by the recently created Department of Government Efficiency (“DOGE”). On January 20, 2025, President Trump announced an executive order establishing the DOGE to maximize government efficiency and productivity. In February 2025, President Trump stated that he has directed DOGE to review Pentagon spending for potential waste and fraud. Pressures on and uncertainty surrounding the U.S. federal government’s budget and potential changes in budgetary priorities, could adversely affect our revenue, financial condition, and results of operations. These initiatives and changes to procurement practices may change the way U.S. government contracts are solicited, negotiated and managed, which may affect whether and how we pursue opportunities to provide our products and services to the U.S. government, including the terms and conditions under which we do so, which may have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. For example, contracts awarded under the United States Department of Defense’s Other Transaction Authority for research and prototypes generally require cost-sharing and may not follow, or may follow only in part, standard U.S. government contracting practices and terms, such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation and Cost Accounting Standards.
Previous wording
Our total revenues are concentrated among a small number of large customers. Sales to our three largest customers in the aggregate represented 88%, sales to our largest customer represented 65% of our total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023, and two customers that accounted for 73% of accounts receivable as of December 31, 2023. Sales to our three largest customers in the aggregate represented 99%, sales to our largest customer represented 95% of our total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022, and one customer that accounted for 62% of accounts receivable as of December 31, 2022. We are under continued pressure from our major customers to offer lower prices, extended payment terms, increased marketing and other allowances and other terms more favorable to these customers because our sales to these customers are concentrated, and the market in which we operate is very competitive. These customer demands have put continued pressure on our operating margins and profitability, resulted in periodic negotiations in connection with open requests for proposals to provide more favorable prices and terms to these customers and significantly increased our working capital needs. In addition, this customer concentration leaves us vulnerable to any adverse change in the financial condition of these customers. Changes in terms with, significant allowances for and collections from these customers could affect our operating results and cash flows. The loss of our main customers could adversely affect our business.
Current wording
Our total revenues are concentrated among a small number of large customers. Sales to our two largest customers in the aggregate represented 73%, sales to our largest customer represented 61% of our total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2024, and three customers that accounted for 72% of accounts receivable as of December 31, 2024. Sales to our three largest customers in the aggregate represented 88%, sales to our largest customer represented 65% of our total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023, and three customers that accounted for 92% of accounts receivable as of December 31, 2023. We are under continued pressure from our major customers to offer lower prices, extended payment terms, increased marketing and other allowances and other terms more favorable to these customers because our sales to these customers are concentrated, and the market in which we operate is very competitive. These customer demands have put continued pressure on our operating margins and profitability, resulted in periodic negotiations in connection with open requests for proposals to provide more favorable prices and terms to these customers and significantly increased our working capital needs. In addition, this customer concentration leaves us vulnerable to any adverse change in the financial condition of these customers. Changes in terms with, significant allowances for and collections from these customers could affect our operating results and cash flows. The loss of our main customers could adversely affect our business.
Previous wording
Our ability to produce our current and future systems, technologies and services and other components of operation is dependent upon sufficient availability of raw materials and supplied components, which we secure from a limited number of suppliers. Our reliance on suppliers to secure raw materials and supplied components exposes us to volatility in the prices and availability of these materials. We may not be able to obtain sufficient supplies of raw materials or supplied components on favorable terms or at all, which could result in delays in the provision of our services, our ability to repair and service our assets, or increased costs, any of which could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations. In particular, we rely on Viking, the manufacturer of our Super Scooper aircraft and an affiliate of LAS, to source and acquire the parts and materials needed to maintain our Super Scoopers and Bridger has not identified a readily available alternative supplier for certain of such parts. If we are unable to obtain (including as a result of a disruption to Viking’s business operations or supply lines) the necessary parts and materials to maintain our Super Scooper aircraft from Viking, and if we are unable to identify an alternative supplier for such parts and materials in a timely manner, then our business operations, including the maintenance and performance of our Super Scooper aircraft, and results of operations would be adversely affected.
Current wording
Our ability to produce our current and future systems, technologies and services and other components of operation is dependent upon sufficient availability of raw materials and supplied components, which we secure from a limited number of suppliers. Our reliance on suppliers to secure raw materials and supplied components exposes us to volatility in the prices and availability of these materials. We may not be able to obtain sufficient supplies of raw materials or supplied components on favorable terms or at all, which could result in delays in the provision of our services, our ability to repair and service our assets, or increased costs, any of which could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations. In particular, we rely on Viking, the manufacturer of our Super Scooper aircraft and an affiliate of LAS, to source and acquire the parts and materials needed to maintain our Super Scoopers and Bridger has not identified a readily available alternative supplier for certain of such parts. If we are unable to obtain (including as a result of a disruption to Viking’s business operations, supply lines or the impact of trade restrictions on Viking’s ability to source raw materials on a cost effective basis, or at all) the necessary parts and materials to maintain our Super Scooper aircraft from Viking, and if we are unable to identify an alternative supplier for such parts and materials in a timely manner, then our business operations, including the maintenance and performance of our Super Scooper aircraft, and results of operations would be adversely affected.
Previous wording
We financed our operations and capital expenditures during 2022 and 2023 primarily through private financing rounds, including the $160.0 million aggregate municipal bond financing that closed on July 21, 2022 and August 10, 2022. In the future, we could be required to raise capital through public or private financing or other arrangements. Such financing may not be available on acceptable terms, or at all, and our failure to raise capital when needed could harm our business. We may sell equity securities or debt securities in one or more transactions at prices and in a manner as we may determine from time to time for general corporate purposes or for specific purposes, including in order to pursue growth initiatives. Any debt financing, if available, may involve restrictive covenants and could reduce our operational flexibility or profitability. If we sell any securities in subsequent transactions, our current investors may be materially diluted. If we cannot raise funds on acceptable terms, we may not be able to grow our business or respond to competitive pressures. In addition, our ability to generate proceeds from equity financings will significantly depend on the market price of our Common Stock. For so long as the market price of our Common Stock is below the exercise price of our Warrants ($11.50 per share), our Warrants remain “out-of-the-money,” and our Warrant Holders are unlikely to cash exercise their Warrants, resulting in little or no cash proceeds to us. There can be no assurance that our Warrants will be in the money prior to their January 24, 2028 expiration date, and therefore, we may not receive any proceeds from the exercise of Warrants to fund our operations.
Current wording
We financed our operations and capital expenditures during 2022 and 2023 primarily through private financing rounds, including the $160.0 million aggregate municipal bond financing that closed on July 21, 2022 and August 10, 2022. During 2024, the Company sold an aggregate of 33,798 shares of Common Stock at a weighted-average price of $5.13 per share for net proceeds of $0.2 million under the 2024 ATM Agreement. In addition, the Company raised additional equity capital through a registered direct equity offering resulting in net cash proceeds of approximately $9.2 million. In the future, we could be required to raise capital through public or private financing or other arrangements. Such financing may not be available on acceptable terms, or at all, and our failure to raise capital when needed could harm our business. We may sell equity securities or debt securities in one or more transactions at prices and in a manner as we may determine from time to time for general corporate purposes or for specific purposes, including in order to pursue growth initiatives. Any debt financing, if available, may involve restrictive covenants and could reduce our operational flexibility or profitability. If we sell any securities in subsequent transactions, our current investors may be materially diluted. If we cannot raise funds on acceptable terms, we may not be able to grow our business or respond to competitive pressures. In addition, our ability to generate proceeds from equity financings will significantly depend on the market price of our Common Stock. For so long as the market price of our Common Stock is below the exercise price of our 17,250,000 warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $11.50 per share, which were issued in exchange for the 17,250,000 JCIC warrants originally issued as part of the units JCIC issued in the JCIC initial public offering (“Public Warrants”) and the 9,400,000 warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock at an exercise price of $11.50 per share, which were issued in exchange for 9,400,000 JCIC warrants (“Private Placement Warrants”) originally purchased in a private placement by JCIC Sponsor LLC, a Cayman Islands exempted limited partnership (“JCIC Sponsor”) (collectively, the “Warrants”), our Warrants remain “out-of-the-money,” and our Warrant Holders are unlikely to cash exercise their Warrants, resulting in little or no cash proceeds to us. There can be no assurance that our Warrants will be in the money prior to their January 24, 2028 expiration date, and therefore, we may not receive any proceeds from the exercise of Warrants to fund our operations.
Previous wording
We currently have a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 effective and an existing “at-the-market” offering program. However, SEC regulations limit the amount that companies with a public float of less than $75 million may raise during any 12-month period pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3. Under General Instruction I.B.6 to Form S-3 (the “Baby Shelf Rule”), the amount of funds a company can raise through primary public offerings of securities in any 12-month period using a registration statement on Form S-3 pursuant to the Baby Shelf Rule is limited to one-third of the aggregate market value of its shares of common stock held by non-affiliates of the company. Currently, we are constrained by the Baby Shelf Rule. If we are required or choose to file a new registration statement on a form other than Form S-3, we may incur additional costs and be subject to delays due to review by the SEC staff.
Current wording
We currently have a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 effective and an existing “at-the-market” offering program. However, SEC regulations limit the amount that companies with a public float of less than $75 million may raise during any 12-month period pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3. Under General Instruction I.B.6 to Form S-3 (the “Baby Shelf Rule”), the amount of funds a company can raise through primary public offerings of securities in any 12-month period using a registration statement on Form S-3 pursuant to the Baby Shelf Rule is limited to one-third of the aggregate market value of its shares of common stock held by non-affiliates of the company. To the extent the Baby Shelf Rule is or becomes applicable to us, we would be limited in the amount we can raise using a registration statement on Form S-3 and may incur additional costs and be subject to delays due to review by the SEC staff if we are required or choose to file a new registration statement on a form other than Form S-3.
Previous wording
We have a substantial amount of debt and servicing future interest or principal payments may impair our ability to operate our business or require us to change our business strategy to accommodate the repayment of our debt. Our ability to operate our business is limited by certain agreements governing our debt, including restrictions on the use of the loan proceeds, operational and financial covenants, and restrictions on additional indebtedness. If we are unable to comply with the financial covenants or other terms of our debt agreements, we may become subject to cross-default or cross-acceleration provisions that could result in our debt being declared immediately due and payable, which could prolong the substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.
Current wording
We have a substantial amount of debt and servicing future interest or principal payments may impair our ability to operate our business or require us to change our business strategy to accommodate the repayment of our debt. Our ability to operate our business is limited by certain agreements governing our debt, including restrictions on the use of the loan proceeds, operational and financial covenants and restrictions on additional indebtedness. If we are unable to comply with the financial covenants or other terms of our debt agreements, we may become subject to cross-default or cross-acceleration provisions that could result in our debt being declared immediately due and payable.
Previous wording
We completed municipal bond financings in July 2022 and August 2022 that raised gross proceeds in the aggregate of $160.0 million. As of December 31, 2023, we had $211.4 million of total debt outstanding. In connection with such bond financings, we have entered into various loan agreements, which contain certain financial covenants, that require, among other things, that we operate in a manner and to the extent permitted by applicable law, to produce sufficient gross revenues so as to be at all relevant times in compliance with the terms of such covenants, including that we maintain (i) beginning with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2023, a minimum debt service coverage ratio (generally calculated as the aggregate amount of our total gross revenues, minus operating expenses, plus interest, depreciation and amortization expense, for any period, over our maximum annual debt service requirements, as determined under such loan agreement) that exceeds 1.25x and (ii) beginning with the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2022, a minimum liquidity of not less than $8.0 million in the form of unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, plus liquid investments and unrestricted marketable securities at all times.
Current wording
We completed municipal bond financings in July 2022 and August 2022 that raised gross proceeds in the aggregate of $160.0 million. As of December 31, 2024, we had $208.4 million of total debt outstanding. In connection with such bond financings, we have entered into various loan agreements, which contain certain financial covenants, that require, among other things, that we operate in a manner and to the extent permitted by applicable law, to produce sufficient gross revenues so as to be at all relevant times in compliance with the terms of such covenants, including that we maintain (i) beginning with the fiscal quarter ending December 31, 2023, a minimum debt service coverage ratio (“DSCR”) (generally calculated as the aggregate amount of our total gross revenues, minus operating expenses, plus interest, depreciation and amortization expense, for any period, over our maximum annual debt service requirements, as determined under such loan agreement) that exceeds 1.25x and (ii) beginning with the fiscal quarter ending September 30, 2022, a minimum liquidity of not less than $8.0 million in the form of unrestricted cash and cash equivalents, plus liquid investments and unrestricted marketable securities at all times.
Previous wording
The Company is not in compliance with the debt service coverage ratio covenant as of December 31, 2023 and management anticipates the Company to continue to not be in compliance with the debt service coverage ratio covenant at future quarterly measurement periods during the next 12 months, primarily attributable to the seasonal nature of our business and a less intense 2023 wildfire season. Although the Company is in compliance with the $8.0 million minimum liquidity requirement as of December 31, 2023, based on projected cash use, management anticipates that without additional cash funding the Company will not have sufficient cash on hand to comply with the minimum liquidity covenant or to fund operations, including $18.4 million of required interest payments associated with the Series 2022 Bonds, within the next 12 months, or until the Company begins to collect cash from its seasonal firefighting operations in 2024.
Current wording
The Company is in compliance with the DSCR covenant as of December 31, 2024 and management anticipates the Company will remain in compliance with the DSCR covenant at future quarterly measurement periods during the next 12 months. The Company is in compliance with the $8.0 million minimum liquidity requirement as of December 31, 2024. It is possible that the Company may not be in compliance with the minimum DSCR and liquidity requirements at future quarterly measurement periods in the next 12 months depending on the cash generated from its seasonal firefighting operations in 2025.
Previous wording
As further described under the section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K entitled“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Indebtedness”, we have also entered into various term loan agreements and other long-term debt to fund the purchase of additional aircraft and finance the construction of aircraft hangars. Under the terms of such agreements, we are subject to certain financial covenants including, a debt service coverage ratio, current assets to liabilities ratio and senior leverage ratio. As of December 31, 2021 and September 30, 2022, we were in violation of the current assets to liabilities and senior leverage ratios requirements, respectively, under the agreements of our credit facilities with Rocky Mountain Bank. On both occasions, Rocky Mountain Bank agreed to waive the violation of such covenants and not enforce its rights and remedies from the resulting events of default under such credit facilities. Additionally, we were considered in violation of a senior leverage ratio requirement as of June 30, 2023. The calculation for this Rocky Mountain Bank covenant based on quarterly financials is a violation for only June 30, 2023. The acceleration of the obligation has been waived for such quarter. The Company is in compliance with such financial covenants as of December 31, 2023. However, no assurance can be provided that we will be able to satisfy such financial covenants in future periods or that we will be able to obtain a waiver from our lenders in the event of non-compliance. A breach of any of these covenants or the occurrence of other events specified in the agreements or related debt documents could result in an event of default under the same and give rise to the lenders’ right to accelerate our debt obligations thereunder and pursue other remedial actions under our credit facilities and/or trigger a cross-default under our other debt agreements, including our Series 2022 Bonds.
Current wording
As further described under the section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K entitled“Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Indebtedness”, we have also entered into various term loan agreements and other long-term debt to fund the purchase of additional aircraft and finance the construction of aircraft hangars. Under the terms of such agreements, we are subject to certain financial covenants including, a DSCR, current assets to liabilities and senior leverage ratios requirements, respectively, under the agreements of our credit facilities with Citywide Banks (formerly known as Rocky Mountain Bank). The Company is in compliance with such financial covenants as of December 31, 2024. However, no assurance can be provided that we will be able to satisfy such financial covenants in future periods or that we will be able to obtain a waiver from our lenders in the event of non-compliance. A breach of any of these covenants or the occurrence of other events specified in the agreements or related debt documents could result in an event of default under the same and give rise to the lenders’ right to accelerate our debt obligations thereunder and pursue other remedial actions under our credit facilities and/or trigger a cross-default under our other debt agreements, including our Series 2022 Bonds.
Previous wording
We historically had four VIEs, two of which have been consolidated in Bridger’s financial statements: Northern Fire Management Services, LLC (“NFMS, LLC”) and Mountain Air, LLC (“MA, LLC”). NFMS, LLC is owned 50% by Bridger Aerospace Group, LLC (“BAG, LLC”), one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, and 50% by a former employee of BAG, LLC, who is a Canadian citizen. We assisted in designing and organizing NFMS, LLC with a business purpose of employing Canadian aviation professionals for our business. We have a master services agreement with NFMS, LLC and Bridger Air Tanker, LLC, our wholly-owned subsidiary, to transfer all annual expenses incurred to us in exchange for the Canadian employees to support our water scooper aircraft. MA, LLC was a VIE for 2021, but subsequent to its acquisition on November 7, 2022 for $1.00, it is now a wholly-owned subsidiary.
Current wording
We assisted in designing and organizing Northern Fire Management Services, LLC (“NFMS, LLC”) with a business purpose of employing Canadian aviation professionals to provide services to the Company. NFMS, LLC is 50% owned by a Canadian citizen, and 50% owned by Bridger Aerospace Group, LLC. We have a master services agreement with NFMS, LLC and Bridger Air Tanker, LLC, our wholly-owned subsidiary, to transfer all annual expenses incurred to us in exchange for the Canadian employees to support our water scooper aircraft.
Previous wording
On November 17, 2023, we entered into a series of agreements for the formation of MAB Funding, LLC (“MAB”) a joint venture entity owned by a fund for which Marathon Asset Management, L.P. acts as investment manager (“Marathon”), a fund for which Avenue Sustainable Solutions Fund, L.P. acts as investment manager (“Avenue”), and the Company that was created for the purpose of purchasing four Canadair CL-215T Amphibious Aircraft originally awarded to our wholly-owned subsidiary, Bridger Aerospace Europe, S.L.U. (“BAE”), in September 2023 via a public tender process from the Government of Spain for €40.3 million. Under the terms of the agreements, Marathon made capital contributions totaling $26.5 million in exchange for 26,488 voting Class A Units of MAB, Avenue made capital contributions totaling $13.0 million in exchange for 13,031 voting Class A Units of MAB, and the Company agreed to sell the entire outstanding equity interest in BAE to MAB and purchase $4.0 million of non-voting Class B units of MAB.
Current wording
On November 17, 2023, we entered into a series of agreements designed to facilitate the purchase and return to service of four Canadair CL-215T Amphibious Aircraft (the “Spanish Scoopers”) originally awarded to our wholly-owned subsidiary, Bridger Aerospace Europe, S.L.U. (“BAE”), in September 2023 via a public tender process from the Government of Spain for €40.3 million. Under the terms of the agreements, we agreed to sell the entire outstanding equity interest in BAE to MAB and purchase $4.0 million of non-voting Class B units of MAB.
Previous wording
We have incurred significant losses since inception. While we currently generate revenue from our aerial firefighting services, we are not currently profitable, and it is difficult for us to predict our future operating results. As a result, our losses may be larger than anticipated, and we may not be able to reach profitability in the foreseeable future. Further, our future growth is heavily dependent upon the necessity for our services.
Current wording
We have incurred significant losses since inception. While we currently generate revenue from our aerial firefighting and MRO services, we are not currently profitable, and it is difficult for us to predict our future operating results. As a result, our losses may be larger than anticipated, and we may not be able to reach profitability in the foreseeable future. Further, our future growth is heavily dependent upon the necessity for our services.
Previous wording
In addition, changing laws, regulations, and standards relating to corporate governance and public disclosure are creating uncertainty for public companies, increasing legal and financial compliance costs, and making some activities more time consuming. These laws, regulations, and standards are subject to varying interpretations, in many cases due to their lack of specificity, and, as a result, their application in practice may evolve or otherwise change over time as new guidance is provided by regulatory and governing bodies. This could result in continuing uncertainty regarding compliance matters and higher costs necessitated by ongoing revisions to disclosure and governance practices. We intend to invest resources to comply with evolving laws, regulations, and standards (or changing interpretations of them), and this investment may result in increased selling, general and administrative expenses and a diversion of management’s time and attention from revenue-generating activities to compliance activities. If our efforts to comply with new laws, regulations, and standards differ from the activities intended by regulatory or governing bodies due to ambiguities related to their application and practice, regulatory authorities may initiate legal proceedings against us, and our business may be adversely affected. As a public company, we have also had to incur increased expenses in order to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to accept reduced coverage or incur substantially higher costs to maintain the same or similar coverage or obtain coverage in the future. These factors could also make it more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified members of our board of directors, particularly to serve on our audit committee, compensation committee, and nominating and governance committee, and qualified executive officers.
Current wording
In addition, changing laws, regulations and standards relating to corporate governance and public disclosure are creating uncertainty for public companies, increasing legal and financial compliance costs, and making some activities more time consuming. These laws, regulations and standards are subject to varying interpretations, in many cases due to their lack of specificity, and, as a result, their application in practice may evolve or otherwise change over time as new guidance is provided by regulatory and governing bodies. This could result in continuing uncertainty regarding compliance matters and higher costs necessitated by ongoing revisions to disclosure and governance practices. We intend to invest resources to comply with evolving laws, regulations and standards, and this investment may result in increased selling, general and administrative expenses and a diversion of management’s time and attention from revenue-generating activities to compliance activities. If our efforts to comply with new laws, regulations and standards differ from the activities intended by regulatory or governing bodies due to ambiguities related to their application and practice, regulatory authorities may initiate legal proceedings against us, and our business may be adversely affected. As a public company, we have also had to incur increased expenses in order to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to accept reduced coverage or incur substantially higher costs to maintain the same or similar coverage or obtain coverage in the future. These factors could also make it more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified members of our Board, particularly to serve on our audit committee, compensation committee and nominating and governance committee and qualified executive officers.
Previous wording
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, that company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and influenced by that company’s board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
Current wording
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, that company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and influenced by that company’s Board, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
Previous wording
Prior to January 2023, the Company was not required to evaluate our internal control over financial reporting in a manner that meets the standards of publicly traded companies required by Section 404(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. We are now required to adhere to these SEC rules, which will require management to certify financial and other information in our quarterly and annual reports and provide an annual management report on the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting beginning for the year ending December 31, 2023. Additionally, once we are no longer an emerging growth company, if we are an “accelerated filer” or a “large accelerated filer” (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act), then we will be required to comply with the independent registered public accounting firm attestation requirement on our internal controls over financial reporting. If we are unable to establish or maintain appropriate internal control over financial reporting or implement these additional requirements in a timely manner or with adequate compliance, it could result in material misstatements in our consolidated financial statements, failure to meet our reporting obligations on a timely basis, increases in compliance costs, and subject us to adverse regulatory consequences, all of which may adversely affect investor confidence in, and the value of, our securities. Furthermore, if some investors find our securities less attractive as a result of the exemptions available us as an emerging growth company, there may be a less active trading market for our securities (assuming a market develops), and the trading price of our securities may be more volatile than that of an otherwise comparable company that does not avail itself of the same or similar exemptions.
Current wording
Prior to January 2023, the Company was not required to evaluate our internal control over financial reporting in a manner that meets the standards of publicly traded companies required by Section 404(a) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. We are now required to adhere to these SEC rules, which will require management to certify financial and other information in our quarterly and annual reports and provide an annual management report on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting beginning for the year ending December 31, 2023. Additionally, once we are no longer an emerging growth company, if we are an “accelerated filer” or a “large accelerated filer” (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act), then we will be required to comply with the independent registered public accounting firm attestation requirement on our internal control over financial reporting. If we are unable to establish or maintain appropriate internal control over financial reporting or implement these additional requirements in a timely manner or with adequate compliance, it could result in material misstatements in our Consolidated Financial Statements, failure to meet our reporting obligations on a timely basis, increases in compliance costs, and subject us to adverse regulatory consequences, all of which may adversely affect investor confidence in, and the value of, our securities. Furthermore, if some investors find our securities less attractive as a result of the exemptions available us as an emerging growth company, there may be a less active trading market for our securities (assuming a market develops), and the trading price of our securities may be more volatile than that of an otherwise comparable company that does not avail itself of the same or similar exemptions.
Previous wording
We have begun the process of, and are focused on, designing and implementing effective internal controls measures to improve our internal control over financial reporting and remediate the material weaknesses. Future remediation of the material weaknesses is subject to ongoing management evaluation and will require validation and testing of the design and operating effectiveness of internal controls over a sustained period of financial reporting cycles.
Current wording
While these ongoing and planned actions are subject to constant management evaluation and will require validation and testing of the design and operating effectiveness of internal controls over a sustained period of financial reporting cycles, we are committed to the improvement of our internal control over financial reporting and will continue to diligently review our internal control over financial reporting.
Previous wording
Although we plan to complete this remediation process as quickly as possible, we are unable, at this time, to estimate how long it will take, and our efforts may not be successful in remediating the identified material weaknesses. In addition, even if we are successful in strengthening our controls and procedures, we can give no assurances that in the future such controls and procedures will be adequate to prevent or identify errors or irregularities or to facilitate the fair preparation and presentation of our consolidated financial statements. Any failure to design or maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting or any difficulties encountered in their implementation or improvement could increase compliance costs, negatively impact share trading prices, or otherwise harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations.
Current wording
Although we plan to complete this remediation process as quickly as possible, we are unable, at this time, to estimate how long it will take, and our efforts may not be successful in remediating the identified material weaknesses. In addition, even if we are successful in strengthening our controls and procedures, we can give no assurances that in the future such controls and procedures will be adequate to prevent or identify errors or irregularities or to facilitate the fair preparation and presentation of our Consolidated Financial Statements. Any failure to design or maintain effective internal control over financial reporting or any difficulties encountered in their implementation or improvement could increase compliance costs, negatively impact share trading prices, or otherwise harm our operating results or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations.
Previous wording
Under our Amended and Restated Charter and our Amended and Restated Bylaws, we have limited the ownership of non-U.S. citizens to 24.9% of the aggregate votes of all outstanding equity securities of our company or 49.0% of the aggregate number of outstanding equities securities in compliance with the regulations set forth by the FAA and the DOT. As a result, if we approach these limits, non-U.S. citizen demand for our equity securities may be reduced, and the price of our Common Stock may suffer.
Current wording
Under our Amended and Restated Charter and our Amended and Restated Bylaws, we have limited the ownership of non-U.S. citizens to 24.9% of the aggregate votes of all outstanding equity securities of our company or 49.0% of the aggregate number of outstanding equity securities in compliance with the regulations set forth by the FAA and the DOT. As a result, if we approach these limits, non-U.S. citizen demand for our equity securities may be reduced, and the price of our Common Stock may suffer.
Previous wording
We may issue additional shares of our Common Stock or other equity securities in the future in connection with, among other things, the proposed sale of Common Stock (the “Shelf Registration”), future acquisitions, repayment of outstanding indebtedness or grants under our Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc. 2023 Omnibus Incentive Plan and the Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc. 2023 Employee Stock Purchase Plan without stockholder approval in a number of circumstances. Our issuance of additional shares of our Common Stock or other equity securities could have one or more of the following effects:
Current wording
We may issue additional shares of our Common Stock or other equity securities in the future in connection with, among other things, future acquisitions, repayment of outstanding indebtedness or grants under our Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc. 2023 Omnibus Incentive Plan and the Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc. 2023 Employee Stock Purchase Plan without stockholder approval in a number of circumstances. Our issuance of additional shares of our Common Stock or other equity securities could have one or more of the following effects:
Previous wording
Provisions in our Amended and Restated Charter, our Amended and Restated Bylaws, the Stockholders Agreement and Delaware law could discourage a takeover that stockholders may consider favorable which could limit the price investors might be willing to pay in the future for our Common Stock and may lead to entrenchment of management.
Current wording
Provisions in our Amended and Restated Charter, our Amended and Restated Bylaws and Delaware law could discourage a takeover that stockholders may consider favorable which could limit the price investors might be willing to pay in the future for our Common Stock and may lead to entrenchment of management.
Previous wording
•a classified board of directors with three-year staggered terms, which may delay the ability of stockholders to change the membership of a majority of the Board;
Current wording
•a classified Board with three-year staggered terms, which may delay the ability of stockholders to change the membership of a majority of the Board;
Previous wording
Additionally, the agreement, dated January 24, 2023 (the “Stockholders Agreement”), by and among the Company, the former direct and indirect equityholders of Bridger Element LLC and the equityholders of Bridger that are affiliates of Blackstone Inc. (“BTO Stockholders”), permits Blackstone Inc. to nominate up two directors to our board of directors while Blackstone Inc. holds a requisite amount of our Common Stock, which could have the effect of increasing the difficulty of shareholders engaged in a proxy campaign against an incumbent board of directors of the Company. Individually and collectively, these anti-takeover defenses could discourage, delay, or prevent a transaction involving a change in control of the Company. These provisions could also discourage proxy contests and make it more difficult for you and other stockholders to elect directors of your choosing and cause the Company to take corporate actions other than those you desire.
Current wording
Individually and collectively, these anti-takeover defenses could discourage, delay, or prevent a transaction involving a change in control of the Company. These provisions could also discourage proxy contests and make it more difficult for you and other stockholders to elect directors of your choosing and cause the Company to take corporate actions other than those you desire.
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, the executive officers of Bridger and Mr. Matthew Sheehy (a co-founder and director of Bridger and the brother of Mr. Timothy Sheehy, the Bridger CEO), collectively beneficially owned 53.3% of the outstanding Common Stock, assuming no shares of Series A Preferred Stock have been converted. As a result, Bridger has a small number of significant stockholders who could significantly influence its business and operations.
Current wording
As of December 31, 2024, the directors and executive officers beneficially owned 8.9% of the outstanding Common Stock. In addition, former directors and officers hold an additional 36.1% of the outstanding Common Stock. In addition, the equityholders of Bridger that are affiliates of Blackstone Inc. collectively beneficially owned 17.3% of the outstanding Common Stock as of December 31, 2024. As a result, Bridger has a small number of significant stockholders who could significantly influence its business and operations.
Previous wording
As indicated above, Bridger has a few significant stockholders who own a substantial percentage of the outstanding Common Stock. These few significant stockholders, either individually or acting together, are able to exercise significant influence over matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions, such as a merger or other sale of Bridger or its assets. In addition, Bridger’s executive officers and Mr. Matthew Sheehy collectively beneficially own a majority of the outstanding Common Stock (assuming no shares of Series A Preferred Stock have been converted) and may be able to control the outcome of most matters submitted to Bridger’s stockholders for a stockholder vote, including director elections. This concentration of ownership may make it more difficult for other stockholders to effect substantial changes in Bridger, may have the effect of delaying, preventing or expediting, as the case may be, a change in control of Bridger and may adversely affect the market price of our Common Stock. Further, the possibility that one or more of these significant stockholders may sell all or a large portion of their Common Stock in a short period of time could adversely affect the trading price of our Common Stock. The interests of these significant stockholders may not be in the best interests of all stockholders.
Current wording
As indicated above, Bridger has a few significant stockholders who own a substantial percentage of the outstanding Common Stock. These few significant stockholders, either individually or acting together, are able to exercise significant influence over matters requiring stockholder approval, including the election of directors and approval of significant corporate transactions, such as a merger or other sale of Bridger or its assets. This concentration of ownership may make it more difficult for other stockholders to effect substantial changes in Bridger, may have the effect of delaying, preventing or expediting, as the case may be, a change in control of Bridger and may adversely affect the market price of our Common Stock. Further, the possibility that one or more of these significant stockholders may sell all or a large portion of their Common Stock in a short period of time could adversely affect the trading price of our Common Stock. The interests of these significant stockholders may not be in the best interests of all stockholders.
Previous wording
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. We will base our estimates on historical experience, known trends and events, and various other factors that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, as provided in the section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates.” The results of these estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Significant assumptions and estimates used in preparing our financial statements include: (a) excess and aging aircraft support parts reserves, (b) allowance for doubtful accounts, (c) useful lives of property, plant and equipment, net (d) allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, (e) impairment of long-lived assets, goodwill and other intangible assets, (f) disclosure of fair value of financial instruments, (g) variable interest entities, (h) accounting for Series A Preferred Stock, (i) revenue recognition, (j) estimates and assumptions made in determining the carrying values of goodwill, other intangible assets, and contingent consideration, (k) incentive units and (l) the 17,250,000 warrants to purchase a share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $11.50 per share, which were issued in exchange for the 17,250,000 JCIC warrants originally issued as part of the units JCIC issued in the JCIC initial public offering (“Public Warrants”) and the 9,400,000 warrants to purchase a share of Common Stock at an exercise price of $11.50 per share, which were issued in exchange for 9,400,000 JCIC warrants (“Private Placement Warrants”) originally purchased in a private placement by JCIC Sponsor LLC, a Cayman Islands exempted limited partnership (“JCIC Sponsor”). Our results of operations may be adversely affected if our assumptions change or if actual circumstances differ from those in our assumptions, which could cause our results of operations to fall below the expectations of securities analysts and investors, resulting in a decline in the trading price of our Common Stock.
Current wording
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP, requires management to make assumptions and estimates that affect the amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of gain or loss contingencies as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We will base our estimates on historical experience, known trends and events, and various other factors that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances, as provided in the section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates.” The results of these estimates form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include: (a) excess and aging aircraft support parts reserves, (b) allowance for doubtful accounts, (c) useful lives of property, plant and equipment, net, (d) allocation of the purchase price to the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, (e) impairment of long-lived assets, goodwill and other intangible assets, (f) disclosure of fair value of financial instruments, (g) variable interest entities, (h) accounting for Series A Preferred Stock, (i) revenue recognition, (j) estimates and assumptions made in determining the carrying values of goodwill, other intangible assets and contingent consideration and (k) Warrants. Our results of operations may be adversely affected if our assumptions change or if actual circumstances differ from those in our assumptions, which could cause our results of operations to fall below the expectations of securities analysts and investors, resulting in a decline in the trading price of our Common Stock.
Previous wording
As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the exercise price for our Warrants is $11.50 per share of Common Stock. On March 15, 2024, the closing price of our Common Stock on Nasdaq was $4.92 per share. For so long as the market price of our Common Stock is below the exercise price of our Warrants ($11.50 per share), our Warrants remain “out-of-the money,” and our Warrant Holders are unlikely to cash exercise their Warrants, resulting in little or no cash proceeds to us. There can be no assurance that our Warrants will be in the money prior to their January 24, 2028 expiration date, and therefore, we may not receive any proceeds from the exercise of Warrants to fund our operations.
Current wording
As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the exercise price for our Warrants is $11.50 per share of Common Stock. On March 10, 2025, the closing price of our Common Stock on Nasdaq was $1.77 per share. For so long as the market price of our Common Stock is below the exercise price of our Warrants ($11.50 per share), our Warrants remain “out-of-the money,” and our Warrant Holders are unlikely to cash exercise their Warrants, resulting in little or no cash proceeds to us. There can be no assurance that our Warrants will be in the money prior to their January 24, 2028 expiration date, and therefore, we may not receive any proceeds from the exercise of Warrants to fund our operations.
Previous wording
We have, or in the future may have, a significant amount of goodwill recorded on our consolidated balance sheet. We are required at least annually to test the recoverability of goodwill. The recoverability test of goodwill is based on the current fair value of our identified reporting units. Fair value measurement requires assumptions and estimates of many critical factors, including revenue and market growth, operating cash flows and discount rates. If general market conditions deteriorate in portions of our business, we could experience a significant decline in the fair value of reporting units. This decline could lead to an impairment of all or a significant portion of the goodwill balance, which could materially affect our GAAP net earnings and net assets.
Current wording
We have, or in the future may have, a significant amount of goodwill recorded on our consolidated balance sheet. We test goodwill for impairment at least annually at each reporting unit, which comprise our operating segment. The impairment test of goodwill is based on the current fair value of our identified reporting units. Fair value measurement requires assumptions and estimates of many critical factors, including revenue and market growth, operating cash flows and discount rates. If general market conditions deteriorate in portions of our business, we could experience a significant decline in the fair value of reporting units. This decline could lead to an impairment of all or a significant portion of the goodwill balance, which could materially affect our GAAP net earnings and net assets.
Showing the first 40 of 42 pairs. Open the source sections for the rest.
Rearranged current paragraphs (3)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
•Inability to source and hire personnel with appropriate skills and experience would inhibit operations.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
•We rely on a few large customers for a majority of our business.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
•We rely on a limited number of suppliers for certain raw materials and supplied components.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (3)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Our pilots and mechanics are required by contract to meet a minimum standard of operational experience. Finding and employing individuals with the necessary level of experience and certification has required us to hire Canadian personnel in addition to U.S. personnel. Inability to source and hire personnel with appropriate skills and experience would inhibit operations.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
We rely on a few large customers for a majority of our business, and the loss of any of these customers, significant changes in the prices, marketing allowances or other important terms provided to any of these customers or adverse developments with respect to the financial condition of these customers could materially reduce our net income and operating results.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
We rely on a limited number of suppliers for certain raw materials and supplied components. We may not be able to obtain sufficient raw materials or supplied components to meet our maintenance or operating needs or obtain such materials on favorable terms or at all, which could impair our ability to provide our services in a timely manner or increase our costs of services and maintenance.