Airline Economics 40 under 40 Class of 2024

Airline Economics, the flagship publication dedicated to the commercial aviation finance and leasing industry owned by Aviation News Ltd, has announced the Airline Economics 40 under 40 Class of 2024 along with the leading Aviation Industry Mentors for 2024. The 40 under 40 is kindly sponsored for the second year running by ABL Aviation.

The Airline Economics 40 under 40 Class of 2024 has been compiled from another record amount of nominations and endorsements, many from senior members of the wide aviation community. All 40 members of the final list received 1,624 endorsements in total, with the majority of those from clients.

“As ever, it was difficult to choose just forty individuals for this year’s 40 Under 40 list from more than 100 nominations,” says Victoria Tozer-Pennington, editor and co-founder of Airline Economics. “Such a robust response to this year’s 40 Under 40 nominations process proves once again how well-served the aviation community is in terms of upcoming talent. I am constantly astounded by the achievements of all of the prospective candidates. Researching their careers, their lives, and in many cases the sacrifices they have made to get where they are today makes me very proud to be able to shine a light on their stories and recognize them for their talent, skill, and sheer determination.”

Although the 40 under 40 group is not ranked, Airline Economics does present its Future Leader award to the individual with the most impressive endorsements from clients and senior industry figures. This year Masafumi Hayashi, SVP Trading and Sales & Marketing at SMBC Aero Engine Lease (SAEL), has been chosen for the Future Leader accolade in recognition of praise from a wide cross section of the industry who single out his ability to create innovative solutions to complex transactions and his contribution to his company’s success.

Several individuals have also been highlighted for recognition with endorsements from clients and industry peers noting their specific talents and contributions to the industry. The Highly Commended designation has been awarded to six individuals to recognise the calibre and sheer quantity of their supporting nominations. These are: Patrick Brophy, Counsel, O’Melveny & Myers; Greg Fox, SVP Commercial Finance, High Ridge Aviation; Arjun Kapur, Legal Counsel, BOC Aviation; Kate O’Connor, Group Vice President, Aircraft Trading, Nordic Aviation Capital; Nitin Sarin, Managing Partner, Sarin & Co.; and Steve Williamson, Principal, Head of Trading, Crestone Air Partners.

All 40 under 40 members are given the opportunity to nominate an individual or individuals that have acted as a mentor or an inspiration during their aviation industry career. These individuals are compiled in the fourth Airline Economics Aviation Industry Mentors group for 2024, also revealed today.

“The talent represented in this year’s 40 Under 40 cohort is astounding,” says Ali Ben Lmadani, founder and chief executive officer of ABL Aviation. The 2024 class is perhaps the most impressive yet, with a long list of accomplishments that reflects our industry’s commitment to integrity, trust, innovation, and sustainability. We applaud the 2024 honourees and are proud to play a role in recognising all that they have achieved. It is a privilege for us to partner with Airline Economics in support of this important program and the leaders it recognises.”

Congratulations to the Airline Economics 40 under 40 Class of 2024. The Airline Economics team looks forward to celebrating with all the 40 under 40 members at a gala dinner being held at the Guildhall in London, on the evening of September 9, 2024.

The full 40 under 40 Class of 2024 and Mentors 2024 are listed below in alphabetical order by last name. The full article, with interviews with all of the group, features in Issue 80 of Airline Economics magazine, available here.