Reflecting on Singapore

This November, our team travelled to Singapore to participate in the Airline Economics Growth Frontiers Conference, a key event bringing together industry leaders to discuss the evolving aviation financing landscape in the Asia-Pacific region.

The conference, chaired by our Chief Counsel, Maria Urtseva, featured insights from lessors, financiers, investors, manufacturers and airlines on topics ranging from market challenges to the opportunities presented by sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). We caught up with her afterwards to find out more.

This was your second time chairing a conference like this. How was it?

Having attended these conferences for over 15 years, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for being fully immersed in the discussions within the auditorium rather than solely focusing on the opportunities for networking with our partners. I really enjoyed it.

One of the real highlights was having the privilege to introduce our CEO, Bobby Janagan and other engine leasing experts to the Engine Leasing & Investment Panel and to learn from their invaluable insights.

What were the keys topics being discussed?

A recurring theme throughout the conference was the lingering impact of the pandemic and conflict-driven sanctions on global supply chains. And we know this is something that effects all of our airline customers in their day-to-day operations.

With demand for leased engines at an all-time high, Bobby spoke to the panel about the importance of fostering strong partnerships with airlines to help them navigate these challenges.

Sustainability also took centre stage, with discussions on the role of SAF and the recent launch of the Asia SAF Association. Meanwhile, the U.S. presidential election weaved through much of the dialogue, with attendees examining its potential influence on interest rates and economic volatility across APAC and beyond.

Are you keen to chair more events in the future?

Absolutely! The conference delivered such a great mix of statistical insight around the really serious topics impacting our industry, alongside light-hearted and punny analysis.

I’d also love the chance to moderate a panel like the ones I was able to sit through in Singapore. Let’s see what next year brings.