Industry Analysis
Sumitomo and Partners Acquire Air Lease in 28 Billion Aviation Deal
Sumitomo, SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo, and Brookfield acquire Air Lease for $28.2B, creating a leading global aircraft lessor.
The $28.2 Billion Aviation Mega-Deal: Sumitomo, SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo, and Brookfield’s Strategic Acquisition of Air Lease Corporation
The acquisition of Air Lease Corporation by a consortium led by Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo, and Brookfield marks a defining moment for the global aircraft leasing industry. Announced on September 2, 2025, this $28.2 billion deal, one of the largest in aviation history, combines two of the most prominent lessors and brings together a powerful coalition of financial and strategic investors. The transaction comes at a time when the aviation sector is navigating complex supply chain challenges, rising demand for next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft, and a rapidly consolidating market landscape.
This acquisition not only delivers a substantial premium to Air Lease shareholders but also positions the new entity, poised to become one of the world’s largest aircraft lessors, to capitalize on evolving opportunities and challenges in a sector expected to nearly double in value by 2034. The combined scale, operational expertise, and financial strength of the consortium promise to reshape competitive dynamics, influence global fleet strategies, and set new benchmarks for industry consolidation.
As airlines worldwide seek to modernize their fleets while managing capital constraints and volatile market conditions, the strategic rationale for such a mega-deal is clear. The new entity’s ability to offer flexible solutions, invest in technology, and provide stability amid ongoing market disruptions underscores the significance of this transaction for both industry stakeholders and the broader aviation ecosystem.
Deal Structure and Financial Framework
The acquisition agreement is structured as an all-cash transaction, with Air Lease Corporation shareholders set to receive $65.00 per share. This values the company’s equity at approximately $7.4 billion, while the total deal value, including debt obligations to be assumed or refinanced, reaches $28.2 billion. The offer price represents a 7% premium over Air Lease’s all-time high closing price as of August 28, 2025, a 14% premium over the 30-day volume-weighted average, and a 31% premium over the 12-month average share price.
The financial-results engineering behind the deal is notable: Apollo and Brookfield are providing substantial capital alongside Sumitomo and SMBC Aviation Capital, ensuring robust funding while maintaining prudent leverage ratios. This approach minimizes execution risk and provides the flexibility needed for future fleet expansions and acquisitions, an essential consideration in a capital-intensive sector. The all-cash structure also removes financing contingencies, offering certainty to Air Lease shareholders and facilitating a smoother regulatory review process.
The transaction has received unanimous approval from Air Lease’s Board of Directors, with key executives and directors committing their shares in support. The deal is subject to customary closing conditions, including shareholder and regulatory approvals, and is anticipated to close in the first half of 2026. This timeline reflects both the scale of the integration and the regulatory scrutiny typical for transactions involving critical infrastructure and cross-border operations.
“Through this transaction, we will achieve greater scale and profitability, positioning the Sumitomo Corporation Group’s aircraft leasing business as one of the largest globally in terms of owned and managed aircraft.”, Takao Kusaka, Group CEO of Sumitomo Corporation’s Transportation & Construction Systems Group
Strategic Background and Market Dynamics
The global aircraft leasing industry has witnessed significant transformation in recent years, driven by evolving airline business models, heightened demand for fleet modernization, and the need for operational flexibility. According to market research, the sector was valued between $183 billion and $192 billion in 2024 and is forecasted to reach as much as $397 billion by 2034, with annual growth rates ranging from 8% to 11%. This growth is underpinned by increasing air travel demand, particularly in emerging markets, and airlines’ preference for asset-light operations.
The timing of the Air Lease acquisition reflects broader market dynamics. Airlines are scrambling to secure new, fuel-efficient aircraft amid persistent production delays at major manufacturers like Airbus and Boeing. Industry pioneer Steven Udvar-Házy noted that neither manufacturer has met recent production targets, with delays expected to extend for several years. This supply-demand imbalance has led to a shortage of available aircraft, pushing up lease rates by 25–30% according to SMBC’s CEO, Peter Barrett. Lessors with modern fleets and short-term leases are particularly well positioned to benefit from these trends.
The acquisition also responds to the increasing need for scale. Larger lessors can offer more attractive financing terms, absorb market shocks, and invest in new technology, all while maintaining strong relationships with airlines and manufacturers. The combined entity’s fleet will be among the largest globally, with Air Lease owning 489 aircraft and managing 60 as of the end of 2024, and SMBC Aviation Capital managing a fleet of 989 aircraft.
“Lease rates are up 25-30% in dollar terms, driven by a combination of factors including the rise in interest rates and increased demand for airplanes.”, Peter Barrett, CEO, SMBC Aviation Capital
Company Profiles and Strategic Positioning
Air Lease Corporation
Founded in 2010 by Steven F. Udvar-Házy and John L. Plueger, Air Lease Corporation quickly established itself as a leader in the aircraft leasing industry. Leveraging the founders’ deep experience and industry relationships, the company focused on acquiring young, fuel-efficient aircraft, a strategy that appealed to airlines seeking operational savings and compliance with evolving environmental standards. By the end of 2024, Air Lease owned 489 aircraft, managed an additional 60, and had committed minimum future rental payments of $29.5 billion.
Air Lease’s operational execution has been strong, with 100% of its expected orderbook placed on long-term leases through 2026 and 85% for aircraft delivering through 2027. The company’s disciplined approach to asset management and customer relationships has made it a preferred partner for airlines worldwide.
Financially, Air Lease reported revenues of $2.73 billion in 2024, but net income declined to $372.1 million due to higher interest expenses and the absence of a one-off insurance settlement recognized in 2023. Despite these headwinds, the company maintained liquidity of $8.1 billion and continued to invest in fleet growth and modernization.
SMBC Aviation Capital
SMBC Aviation Capital, headquartered in Dublin, is the world’s second-largest aircraft operating lease company. The company manages a fleet of 989 aircraft, with a portfolio focused on new technology, narrowbody models. SMBC’s disciplined approach to asset selection and portfolio management has resulted in a weighted average fleet age of just 5.64 years.
The company is backed by Sumitomo Corporation and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, both among Japan’s largest and most respected conglomerates. SMBC Aviation Capital serves over 150 airline and investor customers in more than 50 countries, leveraging its global reach and financial strength to support customer growth and fleet renewal.
In the half-year ended September 2024, SMBC reported a 16% increase in profit before tax, reflecting robust demand for leased aircraft and successful execution of its fleet modernization strategy. The company’s investment-grade ratings from S&P and Fitch further underscore its financial stability.
Apollo and Brookfield: Financial Partners
Apollo and Brookfield, both leading investment management firms, bring substantial capital and aviation sector expertise to the consortium. Apollo’s aviation platform, established nearly a decade ago, manages over 360 commercial aircraft and 60 engines worldwide. Brookfield’s credit operations and partnerships with aviation specialists further enhance the consortium’s ability to structure innovative financing solutions and manage complex asset portfolios.
Their involvement ensures that the new entity will have both the financial firepower and operational agility needed to compete at the highest level of the global leasing market.
The partnership of strategic and financial investors reflects a growing trend in the industry: combining deep sector expertise with flexible, long-term capital to create platforms capable of weathering market volatility and capturing emerging growth opportunities.
Industry Impact and Consolidation Trends
The Air Lease acquisition is emblematic of a broader consolidation trend in aircraft leasing. Despite the sector’s scale, it remains fragmented: the top six lessors control about 35% of the global leased fleet, while the top eleven account for 50%. This fragmentation creates opportunities for larger players to achieve economies of scale, improve operational efficiencies, and offer more competitive terms to airlines.
Industry experts have long anticipated increased merger activity, citing the advantages of scale in negotiating aircraft orders, accessing capital markets, and managing risk. Recent deals, including Carlyle’s acquisition of ACMK and Stratos’s purchase of Magi Partners, have demonstrated the value of consolidation, particularly as smaller lessors face mounting competitive pressures.
The Air Lease deal is likely to accelerate this trend, setting new standards for how strategic and financial investors can collaborate to create industry-leading platforms. As Steven Udvar-Házy observed, consolidation is “inevitable” in a market where supply chain challenges, capital requirements, and customer needs are all intensifying.
“It is just a bigger industry. It is more commoditized… I think consolidation is inevitable.”, Steven Udvar-Házy, Chairman, Air Lease Corporation
Regulatory and Operational Considerations
The transaction must navigate a complex regulatory landscape, reflecting the international nature of aircraft leasing and the strategic importance of aviation infrastructure. Ireland, where SMBC Aviation Capital is headquartered, offers a favorable tax and regulatory environment for lessors, including a 12.5% corporate tax rate, no withholding tax on lease payments, and tax-neutral investment vehicles. These advantages have made Dublin a global hub for aircraft leasing and will support the combined entity’s operational integration.
Operationally, merging two large lessors presents challenges in harmonizing systems, processes, and corporate cultures. The new entity will need to integrate technology platforms, align customer service practices, and manage a geographically dispersed workforce. However, the scale and complementary strengths of Air Lease and SMBC Aviation Capital create opportunities for cross-selling, improved asset utilization, and enhanced customer service.
The consortium’s structure, which combines strategic and financial investors, also provides flexibility in responding to regulatory and market developments. With operations spanning the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, the new entity will be well positioned to serve a diverse and growing customer base.
Expert Analysis and Market Outlook
Industry leaders and analysts have largely endorsed the strategic logic of the deal. John L. Plueger, CEO of Air Lease, described it as “an exciting next chapter” that validates the company’s business model and partnerships. Steven Udvar-Házy emphasized that the transaction delivers both immediate value to shareholders and a platform for continued growth and innovation.
The broader outlook for aircraft leasing remains robust. International air traffic in 2024 reached nearly 99% of pre-pandemic levels, with particularly strong growth in Asia-Pacific. Airlines are expected to continue relying on lessors for fleet flexibility and access to new technology as they navigate uncertain demand and ongoing supply chain disruptions.
The combined entity’s focus on young, fuel-efficient aircraft positions it to benefit from airlines’ environmental and operational priorities. As regulatory pressures and customer expectations around sustainability increase, lessors with modern fleets and the ability to invest in new technology will enjoy a clear competitive advantage.
Conclusion and Strategic Implications
The $28.2 billion acquisition of Air Lease Corporation by Sumitomo, SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo, and Brookfield is a watershed moment for the aircraft leasing industry. By creating one of the world’s largest and most technologically advanced lessors, the deal sets new standards for scale, operational capability, and strategic vision. The transaction’s premium valuation, robust financial backing, and clear alignment with long-term industry trends underscore its transformative potential.
Looking ahead, the deal is likely to spur further consolidation as smaller lessors seek to remain competitive in a market increasingly dominated by global giants. The integration of Air Lease and SMBC Aviation Capital will be closely watched as a model for future partnerships, demonstrating how strategic and financial investors can collaborate to create value for shareholders, customers, and the broader aviation sector. As the industry continues to evolve, the new entity’s ability to innovate, invest, and deliver for its airline partners will be a key barometer of success.
FAQ
Question: What is the total value of the Air Lease acquisition deal?
Answer: The total transaction value is approximately $28.2 billion, including debt obligations.
Question: Who are the main parties involved in the acquisition?
Answer: The consortium consists of Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital, Apollo, and Brookfield.
Question: What premium does the deal offer to Air Lease shareholders?
Answer: The offer represents a 7% premium over Air Lease’s all-time high closing price, a 14% premium over the 30-day average, and a 31% premium over the 12-month average share price.
Question: When is the transaction expected to close?
Answer: The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to customary regulatory and shareholder approvals.
Question: What will the combined fleet size be after the merger?
Answer: The combined entity will manage a fleet of over 1,400 aircraft, making it one of the largest lessors globally.
Sources:
SMBC Aviation Capital,
Air Lease Corporation Investor Relations,
Apollo Global Management,
Brookfield
Photo Credit: Boeing
Industry Analysis
Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt 2026 Focuses on MRO and Sustainability
AirPro News partners with Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt 2026, highlighting MRO market growth, SAF challenges, AI, and workforce issues in aviation.
AirPro News is proud to announce its official media partnership with the Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt 2026. Set to take place on September 29–30, 2026, at the Frankfurt Marriott Hotel, this major international gathering will bring together industry leaders, airlines, maintenance organizations, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and aviation solution providers from around the world.
The conference is expected to host over 600 participants and will feature more than 50 speakers, 40 exhibitors, and 11 executive panels. Organized by the Aviovis Group, the event has already attracted major global stakeholders, including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Lufthansa, Air France, and Emirates, alongside industry giants Boeing and Airbus.
Addressing Aviation’s Most Pressing Challenges
The Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt will focus on critical operational and strategic topics rather than traditional product launches. As noted in the event’s announcement, the agenda includes discussions on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), AI-driven operations, maintenance reliability, and fleet strategy.
The MRO “Super Cycle” and Supply Chain Crisis
One of the primary focuses of the conference will be the ongoing pressures within the aviation aftermarket. Industry data provided in recent market research indicates that the global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) market exceeded $136 billion in 2025 and is projected to approach $193 billion by the end of the decade. This growth is driven by an MRO “super cycle,” exacerbated by ongoing aircraft delivery delays, with some Boeing delays stretching into 2027, forcing airlines to operate older aircraft for longer periods. Material shortages and geopolitical tariffs are now considered structural baselines rather than temporary disruptions.
The Reality of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Sustainability remains a critical boardroom issue. Despite aggressive industry goals, current market data shows that SAF accounts for less than 1% of global jet fuel demand. Furthermore, regulatory pressures such as the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism have added an estimated $8 to $12 per ticket on transatlantic flights. The conference will feature a dedicated panel titled “Sustainability in Aviation: The SAF Reality Check” to address these harsh economic realities and explore SAF as a potential hedge against fossil fuel price shocks.
Digitalization and the Workforce
Beyond hardware and fuel, the aviation industry is navigating significant shifts in technology and human resources. The Frankfurt summit will provide a curated, closed-door environment for senior decision-makers to openly discuss these commercial risks and operational constraints.
Artificial Intelligence: From Hype to ROI
In 2026, artificial intelligence in aviation is transitioning from exploratory concepts to operational reality. Industry analysis highlights that “Agentic AI” and predictive maintenance tools have already demonstrated the capability to reduce unscheduled aircraft downtime by up to 35% at major carriers. The conference will explore how to move from data foundations to real-world return on investment, balancing innovation with the safety-critical nature of the industry.
Workforce and Fleet Pressures
Technological advancements are arriving at a crucial time, as the industry battles a global pilot shortage exceeding 80,000 positions, alongside a generational shift in the maintenance technician workforce. With record-high passenger load factors accelerating aircraft wear and tear, maintenance teams are facing tighter turnaround windows with fewer experienced staff, making workforce management a central theme of the event.
A Senior-Level Industry Platform
Organized as a curated senior-level event, the conference is designed to encourage meaningful dialogue. In addition to the executive panels, attendees will have access to a dedicated exhibition area, structured networking sessions, and a matchmaking platform to support direct business engagement.
“The conference aims to deliver practical, executive-level discussions led by industry professionals directly involved in operational decision-making and long-term aviation strategy,” stated the official press release.
AirPro News analysis
As an official media partner, we view the Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt 2026 as a vital pivot in industry gatherings. The format represents a necessary shift from promotional trade shows to a “war room” environment where executives can address structural crises like the MRO supply chain and aircraft shortages. By partnering with this high-level event, AirPro News continues to cement its status as a serious analytical voice in the aerospace media landscape, leveraging our digital reach, including our YouTube channel of over 42,900 subscribers and 4,600 videos, to amplify these strategic discussions globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt 2026?
The event will take place on September 29–30, 2026, at the Frankfurt Marriott Hotel in Frankfurt, Germany.
Who is organizing the event?
The conference is organized by the Aviovis Group.
What is AirPro News’s role at the conference?
AirPro News is an official media partner, providing pre-event promotion and on-site coverage across its digital and social media channels to connect global aviation professionals with the event’s insights.
Photo Credit: Global Aviation Conference Frankfurt
Industry Analysis
TITAN Aerospace Insurance Expands West Coast with Ouzel Services Acquisition
TITAN Aerospace Insurance acquires Ouzel Services to expand West Coast presence and enhance aviation insurance expertise with founder Erik Everson joining.
This article is based on an official press release from TITAN Aerospace Insurance.
On May 6, 2026, TITAN Aerospace Insurance (TAI) announced its acquisition of Ouzel Services, Inc., a specialized aviation insurance firm based in Redding, California. This strategic acquisition marks a significant step in TAI’s ongoing efforts to expand its geographic footprint and deepen its operational expertise on the West Coast of the United States.
As part of the acquisition agreement, Ouzel Services founder Erik Everson will officially join the TAI team. According to the company’s press release, Everson will focus on delivering client-centric risk management solutions and comprehensive insurance strategies for aviation operators.
TAI, a subsidiary of TITAN Aviation Fuels headquartered in New Bern, North Carolina, has been steadily growing its national presence. The integration of Ouzel Services is expected to bolster TAI’s capabilities in handling complex insurance renewals and coverage strategies for a diverse portfolio of aviation clients.
Strategic Geographic Expansion
The acquisition of Ouzel Services highlights a deliberate westward expansion for TITAN Aerospace Insurance. Historically rooted in North Carolina, TAI has been systematically building a nationwide network to better serve aircraft owners, operators, manufacturers, and airports.
Building a Nationwide Network
According to the official announcement, this move follows a series of strategic expansions over the past two years. In August 2024, TAI, formerly known as EBCO Aviation Insurance, LLC, rebranded to align with its parent company and acquired Plimsoll Specialty Markets, an Atlanta-based wholesale broker. By June 2025, the firm opened a strategic office in Dallas, Texas, positioned between Dallas Love Field and Addison Airport.
The addition of a Redding, California-based firm provides TAI with a crucial foothold on the West Coast, allowing the brokerage to offer localized expertise to a broader segment of the U.S. aviation market.
The “Mechanic-to-Broker” Advantage
A key asset in this acquisition is the operational background of Ouzel Services founder Erik Everson. The press release notes that Everson is a third-generation aviator who brings hands-on technical experience to the insurance sector.
Deep Aviation Roots
Early in his career, Everson spent over six years with Air Shasta Rotor & Wing, working as an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic Apprentice and Line Service Technician. This practical experience in helicopter operations, maintenance, and airport services provides a unique foundation for his subsequent career in aviation insurance.
Before joining TAI, Everson founded Ouzel Services, co-founded Jefferson Aviation Insurance Solutions, and served as a Commercial Insurance Broker with Jefferson Financial & Insurance Services. TAI leadership emphasized that this blend of mechanical and financial expertise is highly valued.
“The acquisition of Ouzel Services and addition of Erik to our team represents another exciting step in TAI’s continued growth. Erik’s operational aviation background, insurance expertise, and relationship-driven approach align perfectly with the values and service commitment we bring to our clients across the aviation industry,” stated Jon Downey, CEO of TITAN Aerospace Insurance, in the company release.
Broader Industry Context
TAI is currently led by CEO Jon Downey, an industry veteran with previous leadership roles at Allianz and Assured Partners Aerospace. Under his guidance, and with the backing of parent company TITAN Aviation Fuels, the brokerage has launched specialized products, including an exclusive general liability insurance program introduced in July 2025 for TITAN-branded fixed-base operators (FBOs).
AirPro News analysis
We observe that the acquisition of Ouzel Services is indicative of a broader consolidation trend within the aviation services and insurance sectors. TITAN Aviation Fuels, which the company notes boasts over 600 branded locations in the U.S. and 2,000 globally, has been aggressively expanding its portfolio. Recent moves by the parent company include the 2022 acquisition of Swiss aviation fuel reseller AKRYL and the 2025 purchase of the Multi Service Aviation Card business from U.S. Bank National Association.
By bringing specialized boutique firms like Ouzel Services under the corporate umbrella, TITAN is effectively creating a vertically integrated ecosystem. Clients purchasing fuel or utilizing TITAN-branded FBOs can now be seamlessly funneled into proprietary, specialized insurance programs. Everson’s “mechanic-to-broker” pipeline is particularly strategic, as hands-on operational experience often translates into more accurate risk assessments and stronger credibility with aviation clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TITAN Aerospace Insurance?
TITAN Aerospace Insurance (TAI) is a large, privately held aviation insurance broker in the U.S., providing coverage for aircraft owners, operators, FBOs, and airports. It is a subsidiary of TITAN Aviation Fuels and was formerly known as EBCO Aviation Insurance before rebranding in August 2024.
Who is Erik Everson?
Erik Everson is the founder of Ouzel Services, Inc. He is a third-generation aviator with over six years of early-career experience as an A&P Mechanic Apprentice and Line Service Technician. He joins TAI to provide risk management and insurance strategy.
Why did TAI acquire Ouzel Services?
According to the company’s press release, the acquisition is designed to expand TAI’s aviation insurance expertise and strengthen its geographic presence on the West Coast of the United States.
Sources
Photo Credit: Montage
Industry Analysis
Acrisure London Wholesale Launches Dedicated Aviation Division
Acrisure London Wholesale launches a new Aviation Division led by Jonny Rowling to strengthen specialty aviation insurance in the London market.
This article is based on an official press release from Acrisure.
On March 23, 2026, Acrisure London Wholesale (ALW) officially announced the launch of a dedicated Aviation Division. According to a company press release, this strategic move aims to bolster the global fintech and insurance broker’s specialty capabilities within the London market, providing a critical link between its retail clients and complex wholesale placements.
The new division is spearheaded by Jonny Rowling, who assumed the role of Senior Vice President and Head of Aviation on March 16, 2026. Rowling brings over 15 years of industry experience to the position, having previously served as Co-Head of General Aviation and Placement Leader at Marsh, following a seven-year tenure at Lockton.
We note that this launch represents a significant step in Acrisure’s broader strategy to connect its expansive US-based retail operations with the specialized underwriting capacity of the London wholesale market.
Strategic Expansion in the London Wholesale Market
ALW operates as the wholesale arm of Acrisure, placing complex risks through Lloyd’s of London and other London company markets on behalf of intermediaries. The addition of the Aviation Division follows closely on the heels of ALW’s new Construction Division, which launched in February 2026 under the leadership of another former Lockton executive, Tom Hester.
Acrisure has experienced massive global growth over the past decade. Company data indicates revenue has surged from $38 million to nearly $5 billion over the last 11 years. Following a $2.1 billion funding round led by Bain Capital in May 2025, the brokerage reached a valuation of $32 billion and currently employs over 19,000 people across 24 countries.
Leadership and Talent Acquisition
The build-out of ALW’s specialty desks is being overseen by Managing Director Tom Quy, who emphasized the importance of bringing in specialized talent to navigate the complexities of the global aviation sector.
“Jonny’s appointment reflects our continued investment in building specialist capabilities within Acrisure London Wholesale. Aviation is a dynamic and globally connected market, and Jonny brings deep expertise and strong relationships that will enable us to develop a compelling proposition…”
Navigating a Hardening Aviation Insurance Market
The launch of ALW’s aviation desk coincides with a highly transitional and hardening period for the aviation insurance sector. According to a January 2026 landscape report by Willis Towers Watson (WTW), insurers are targeting rate increases of approximately 10% for “clean” aviation risks this year, with steeper hikes expected for distressed accounts.
Furthermore, Gallagher Specialty’s Plane Talking Q4 2025 report highlighted that 2025 was a particularly challenging year for the market. Premium adequacy has been strained by consecutive loss-making years and major incidents, including the total loss of a UPS Airlines MD-11 in November 2025. Industry data also points to soaring maintenance and repair operations (MRO) costs, which have surged by roughly 39% over the past three years due to material shortages, workforce scarcity, and exclusive original equipment manufacturer (OEM) servicing.
In addition to rising costs, the market is grappling with emerging liability challenges, including geopolitical volatility, cybersecurity threats, and technological disruptions from advanced air mobility such as drones and electric aircraft.
“I’m excited to join ALW at such a pivotal stage in its growth. The opportunity to establish and expand a dedicated aviation practice within Acrisure’s global network is an incredible opportunity. There is significant potential to deliver innovative solutions to clients across the aviation sector…”
Bridging Retail and Wholesale Operations
The new London-based division is designed to work in tandem with Acrisure Aerospace, the company’s retail aviation group. Launched in February 2024 and led by Managing Director Jason Riley, Acrisure Aerospace consolidated several partner agencies to serve direct clients domestically in the US and internationally.
By establishing a dedicated wholesale division, Acrisure aims to provide a holistic offering that covers everything from light aircraft to commercial fleets and complex aerospace placements.
“Jonny’s addition strengthens the connection between ALW’s new aviation division and Acrisure Aerospace, expanding our capabilities and bringing a more holistic aerospace offering to clients worldwide.”
AirPro News analysis
We view Acrisure’s latest expansion as a calculated effort to “close the loop” in its aviation placement process. By establishing a heavy-hitting wholesale desk in London, the world’s premier market for complex aviation risk, Acrisure can now seamlessly funnel the retail business it generates in the US directly into Lloyd’s of London. This allows the brokerage to keep more of the placement process, and the associated revenue, in-house.
Furthermore, ALW’s aggressive talent acquisition strategy, evidenced by recruiting top-tier executives from legacy brokers like Marsh and Lockton, signals a clear ambition to disrupt the London specialty market. Launching this division during a hard market is timely; with premiums rising and capacity tightening, clients are actively seeking the innovative broking solutions that Acrisure is positioning itself to provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Acrisure London Wholesale’s new division?
Acrisure London Wholesale (ALW) has launched a new specialist Aviation Division to place complex aviation risks through Lloyd’s of London and other London company markets.
Who is leading the new Aviation Division?
Jonny Rowling has been appointed as Senior Vice President and Head of Aviation. He brings over 15 years of experience, having previously held senior roles at Marsh and Lockton.
Why are aviation insurance premiums rising in 2026?
According to industry reports from WTW and Gallagher Specialty, premiums are rising due to consecutive loss-making years, major aircraft incidents in 2025, and a roughly 39% surge in maintenance and repair (MRO) costs over the past three years.
Sources:
Photo Credit: Acrisure
-
Regulations & Safety7 days agoAAIB Report Details Leonardo AW139 Tail Rotor Bearing Near-Miss
-
Regulations & Safety5 days agoNTSB Urges FAA to Update Runway Condition Assessment Matrix for Heavy Rain
-
Space & Satellites4 days agoFAA Orders SpaceX Investigation After Starship Flight 12 Booster Mishap
-
Space & Satellites2 days agoBlue Origin’s New Glenn Rocket Explodes During Test at Cape Canaveral
-
Space & Satellites4 days agoUS Space Force Awards SpaceX $2.29B Contract for Military Satellite Network