Avolon caps 2025 with strong growth, record sales, upgraded ratings

Avolon, one of the world’s leading aviation finance companies, reported a robust fourth quarter and full-year performance for 2025, marked by record aircraft sales, a strengthened balance sheet, and continued demand for next-generation aircraft.

In its latest trading update, the Dublin-based lessor highlighted significant momentum across acquisitions, placements, financing activity, and credit ratings, signalling what the company described as a “strong upward trajectory” heading into 2026.

Serving 139 airlines across 61 countries, Avolon continues to position itself as a critical link between global capital and airline customers navigating fleet renewal and growth cycles.

Avolon sold a record 95 aircraft in 2025, including 26 in the fourth quarter, with an average age of 10 years. The company also secured agreements to sell an additional 72 aircraft, underscoring persistent demand across global markets.

On the acquisition side, Avolon added 168 aircraft to its portfolio during the year. This included 106 aircraft acquired through its major transaction with Castlelake Aviation Limited and 21 in Q4. By year-end, Avolon’s owned, managed, and committed fleet reached 1,132 aircraft, supported by orders and commitments for 500 new aircraft.

Demand for new-technology aircraft remained strong, with Avolon placing 59 next-generation aircraft during 2025, including 10 in the final quarter.

The lessor also advanced its long-term fleet strategy with a significant order for 90 Airbus aircraft – 75 A321neo and 15 A330neo – with deliveries scheduled through 2033. This positions Avolon to meet rising airline demand for fuel-efficient models amid tightening sustainability requirements.

Avolon’s financial position improved notably during the year, reflected in credit rating upgrades from two agencies. Moody’s and Fitch both upgraded Avolon’s investment-grade ratings, while S&P Global Ratings shifted its outlook to positive.

Liquidity remained a priority. Avolon extended its unsecured revolving credit facility to October 2029 and increased its size to US$6.3 billion. The company also contracted US$6.6 billion in new unsecured debt financing, comprising US$3.6 billion in senior unsecured notes and US$3.0 billion in new unsecured bank facilities.

Avolon said the financing activity, combined with its diversified funding sources, supports its long-term investment strategy and operational resilience.