Aircraft lessors are expected to further strengthen their market position over 2026 as airlines respond to sustained OEM delivery backlogs by prioritising access to modern, fuel-efficient aircraft. Market analysis points to continued growth in leasing demand as carriers balance capacity needs with cost control and sustainability pressures.

With production delays limiting direct fleet expansion, airlines are increasingly relying on lessors to provide near-term lift, particularly through new-generation narrowbody aircraft and structured wet lease solutions. This shift is reinforcing the role of leasing as a core fleet strategy rather than a short-term bridge.

For lessors, the focus on fuel efficiency is supporting asset values and driving competition for high-spec aircraft, while also increasing operational complexity across technical management, contract structuring, and fleet placement. Wet leasing remains an active segment as airlines protect schedules and manage seasonal demand volatility.

Read the full market analysis via GlobeNewswire

Ireland’s Role as a Global Hub for Aircraft Leasing

Over the past several decades, Ireland has established itself as one of the world’s leading hubs for the aircraft leasing industry. Today, the country is widely recognised as a centre of excellence for aircraft leasing, aviation finance, and related professional services, supporting lessors and financiers operating across every major global aviation market.

Below are some of the key factors from the past, present and future that have contributed to Ireland’s success in aircraft leasing and continue to underpin its long-term relevance to the industry.

Fact 1: A long-standing presence in global aircraft leasing

Ireland has over four decades of involvement in aircraft leasing. The country became an early participant in the sector in the 1970s with the establishment of pioneering leasing platforms, helping to lay the foundations for what has since become a globally significant industry cluster. This early mover advantage has played a major role in shaping Ireland’s reputation as a natural home for aircraft leasing businesses.

Fact 2: A global base for leading lessors and financiers

Today, many of the world’s largest aircraft lessors, banks, asset managers and aviation finance platforms operate from Ireland. These organisations use Ireland as a base to finance, manage and lease aircraft to airlines worldwide, making the sector one of Ireland’s most internationally focused industries and a key contributor to the domestic economy.

Fact 3: A strong professional services ecosystem

The scale of aircraft leasing activity managed from Ireland has driven significant growth across professional services. Legal, accounting, tax, technical and advisory firms have developed dedicated aviation teams to support the sector, creating a highly specialised ecosystem that reinforces Ireland’s attractiveness to both established players and new market entrants.

Fact 4: A recognised global meeting point for aviation finance

Ireland regularly hosts major international aviation finance and leasing conferences, attracting thousands of industry professionals from around the world. These events further reinforce Ireland’s position as a focal point for industry dialogue, deal-making and collaboration across the global aviation community.

Fact 5: Significant long-term growth in leasing activity

Over time, the value of aircraft assets managed through Ireland has grown substantially, driven by both organic growth among established lessors and the arrival of new entrants. This expansion reflects the increasing importance of leasing within the global aviation industry and Ireland’s role in supporting that growth.

Fact 6: Strong links to high-growth aviation markets

A large proportion of global aircraft leasing demand is driven by emerging and high-growth regions, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Ireland’s leasing platforms are deeply connected to these markets, supporting airlines and operators as they expand fleets to meet rising passenger demand.

Fact 7: A coordinated industry voice

The aircraft leasing sector in Ireland is supported by an established industry body that represents the interests of lessors operating in the jurisdiction. This organisation plays a role in industry engagement, policy dialogue and the promotion of Ireland as a global leasing centre.

Fact 8: An extensive international tax treaty network

Ireland’s broad network of double taxation treaties continues to be an important factor in its attractiveness to aircraft lessors operating on a global basis. Ongoing engagement with international markets helps ensure Ireland remains competitive as leasing activity expands into new regions.

Fact 9: Ireland’s continued appeal amid global regulatory change

Ongoing regulatory and geopolitical developments in other jurisdictions have, over time, led some firms to reassess where they locate key operations. Ireland’s established regulatory framework, talent pool and international connectivity continue to make it an attractive option for aircraft leasing businesses seeking long-term stability.

Fact 10: Continued contribution to the Irish economy

The aircraft leasing and broader aviation finance sector remains a significant contributor to Ireland’s economy, supporting high-value employment and international investment. As global air travel continues to evolve, the sector is expected to remain an important pillar of Ireland’s international financial services landscape.

About GKR
GKR is a leading recruitment specialist in the aircraft leasing sector in Ireland and internationally. To learn more about the market or to speak with a member of our dedicated aircraft leasing team, please get in touch or view our latest opportunities here or via our LinkedIn page.