Sarah Humpleby
Partner
Cayman Islands
As we reach the end of the year, our global Asset Finance team, reflect on the last 12 months of activity in the market and share insights from the autumn conference season.
In the Airline Economics Autumn 2025 Awards, our global Asset Finance team acted on award-winning deals in the following categories:
- European M&A Deal of the Year
- Asia-Pacific Overall Deal of the Year
- Americas Overall Deal of the Year
- Middle East & Africa Supported Finance Deal of the Year
Additionally, at the Ishka 2024 Deal of the Year Awards, Walkers also acted on deals that received the following accolades:
- Best European M&A Deal 2024
- Best Capital Markets Deal 2024
- Best Lessor Deal 2024
- Best Commercial Bank Deal 2024
- Best Engine Deal 2024
- Best Supported Finance Deal of 2024
These highlights underline our commitment to delivering market-leading legal advice in aviation transactions globally.
Asset finance partner, Sarah Humpleby stated, 'These awards reflect the hard work and commitment of our clients. The innovation and diversity of the deals reflect our deep expertise and the strength of our global team. We are proud that our clients continue to place confidence in us to deliver on high-profile transactions across the industry.'
The team has also actively participated in global events, including Airline Economics Growth Frontier forums in London, Dubai, Singapore and New York, as well as Ishka North America and ISTAT in EMEA and Americas, where several key trends emerged:
- Momentum in the ABS market: Following a strong recovery in 2024, the asset-backed securities (ABS) market posted notable figures in 2025 with total issuances exceeding $10 billion following closing of the WEST IX ABS at the end of the year. As we enter 2026, with issuance volumes rising and lease rates remaining steady, we predict ABS activity to remain robust.
- ESG and sustainable finance at the forefront: ESG initiatives continue to be a primary focus for the aviation sector in line with IATA's 2050 Net Zero target. Europe's first sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) mandate came into effect this year and both lessors and financiers have begun to link loan terms and portfolio strategy to ESG metrics. Eco-friendly aircraft and SAF-ready assets now attract better financing and easier capital access.
- M&A activity intensifies: The year has seen a surge in competitive bid processes for businesses and portfolios coming to market. Leasing companies and private equity firms remain active bidders, reflecting sustained interest and confidence in the sector’s long-term fundamentals.
- Global sentiment: Industry confidence held firm despite supply-chain disruptions for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), which have tightened aircraft availability, keeping lease rates and values elevated. This scarcity, combined with strong air travel demand, has spurred M&A, with financiers and strategic buyers pursuing consolidation and portfolio deals.
Asset finance partner, Killian McSharry commented; '2025 has been a year of continued positive growth and strong investor appetite for aviation and asset finance. From the upward surge in trading activity to the buoyant ABS market along with continued M&A and joint venture activity, the market is evolving at pace. Walkers has been at the forefront, advising on landmark transactions and helping clients navigate these developments with confidence and clarity. We stand ready to guide clients through these changing currents.'
2025 has been a busy year for our global Asset Finance team, advising on landmark transactions and collaborating with industry stakeholders to deliver exceptional results. If you’d like to discuss how we can support your plans for 2026, please contact a member of our team.
