15 Mar 2025
#3 March 2025: Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter
AerCap Reports Strong Financial Results for 2024
AerCap Holdings has reported record financial results for Q4 and the full year of 2024, with $1.3 billion in quarterly operating cash flow and $5.4 billion for the full year. CEO Aengus Kelly highlighted robust demand for leased aircraft, engines, and helicopters, driving $869 million in asset sales during the quarter, with a record $260 million gain on sales. In response to its strong outlook for 2025, AerCap has announced a $1 billion share repurchase program and an increase in its quarterly dividend to $0.27 per share.
AFG Aviation Ireland Limited Appoints Imtiaz Khot as SVP Commercial
AFG Aviation Ireland Limited (AFG) has named Mr Imtiaz Khot as Senior Vice President – Commercial. Mr. Khot joins after 24 years at ALAFCO, where he led airline marketing and built a diverse global leasing portfolio, structuring sale and leaseback transactions and managing off-lease aircraft placements. His expertise in leasing A320neo, Boeing 737-800/MAX, and A350-900XWB aircraft positions AFG for further expansion in aircraft leasing and strategic asset placements.
CDB Aviation Delivers 2nd Airbus A320neo to Colorful Guizhou Airlines
CDB Aviation has successfully delivered an Airbus A320-251N to Colorful Guizhou Airlines, featuring the airline’s new cabin design aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and onboard experience. CEO Jie Chen reaffirmed CDB Aviation’s commitment to long-term partnerships with airlines globally. The new A320neo will support Colorful Guizhou Airlines' fleet growth strategy, providing efficient and resourceful air passenger services.
Jackson Square Aviation Delivers Four Boeing 737 MAX 8 Aircraft to Aeroméxico
Jackson Square Aviation (JSA) has completed the delivery of four Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to Aeroméxico, marking the first deliveries from JSA’s direct Boeing order. SVP of Marketing – Latin America & Caribbean, Alfredo Sarria, highlighted JSA’s decade-long relationship with Aeroméxico, reinforcing the company’s role as a key leasing partner in the Latin American aviation market.
Acumen’s Take
On AerCap’s Strong Financial Performance
AerCap’s record earnings and strong operating cash flow reflect the high demand for leased aircraft amid a recovering global aviation market. The $1 billion share buyback and increased dividend payout indicate confidence in sustained profitability and portfolio strength. Acumen sees continued asset sales at record margins as a significant trend shaping the lessor market in 2025.
On AFG’s Appointment of Imtiaz Khot
With extensive aircraft leasing and airline marketing experience, Mr. Khot’s appointment signals AFG’s intent to expand its commercial leasing portfolio. His expertise in structuring sale and leaseback deals and managing a diverse aircraft fleet strengthens AFG’s position in the aircraft leasing sector. Acumen views this as a key strategic hire that will drive further airline partnerships and leasing growth.
On CDB Aviation’s A320neo Delivery to Colorful Guizhou Airlines
The delivery of an A320neo highlights the continued fleet expansion across Chinese airlines, with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft driving passenger experience upgrades. Acumen sees this as a reflection of China's ongoing fleet modernisation, supporting strong leasing demand for narrowbody aircraft.
On Jackson Square Aviation’s 737 MAX 8 Deliveries to Aeroméxico
JSA’s first direct Boeing order deliveries reinforce its growing influence in the leasing sector, particularly in Latin America. The addition of four Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft strengthens Aeroméxico’s regional and international connectivity. Acumen recognises this as a strong example of fleet renewal and airline-lessor collaboration in emerging markets.
Acumen Aviation © 14 March 2025 All Rights Reserved
