A Newport aviation company that has grown into a global supplier of aircraft engines, parts and maintenance services has been acquired by Japanese firm ORIX Aviation in a transaction valued at approximately £475m. According to BBC News, the deal marks a significant expansion for ORIX Aviation beyond its traditional aircraft leasing operations into aftermarket services and end-of-life aircraft management.
AerFin, which employs more than 230 people across sites in the United Kingdom and internationally, was founded by Bob James and has evolved from a south Wales operation into a global aviation aftermarket specialist. The company operates from Newport as well as locations in Miami, Singapore and Dublin. According to Yahoo News, approximately half of AerFin's workforce is based in Newport.
The acquisition was completed on 2 November 2026 after regulatory approvals and closing conditions were satisfied, making AerFin a wholly owned subsidiary of ORIX Aviation. The transaction represents the exit of Danish private equity investor CataCap, which had held the majority stake in AerFin since 2019.
What does AerFin do?
AerFin specialises in extending the operational life of aircraft and engines through trading, leasing, repair and reuse activities. The company buys, sells, leases and repairs aircraft, engines and components, serving more than 600 organisations across the aviation industry. Its services help airlines and aviation companies source parts and manage assets throughout their operational lifecycles.
In 2025, the company relocated to a new purpose-built facility spanning 116,000 square feet at Indurent Park in Newport, reflecting its expansion trajectory. Financial data shows AerFin's 2025 revenue increased 25 per cent to approximately £276m, while EBITDA rose 33 per cent to more than £52m.
Why is ORIX Aviation making this acquisition?
For ORIX Aviation, the acquisition strengthens its capabilities across the entire lifecycle of an aircraft. The Japanese financial services giant's aircraft leasing arm currently operates a fleet comprising more than 230 aircraft leased to over 60 airline customers in more than 40 countries. By acquiring AerFin, ORIX Aviation expands beyond aircraft ownership and leasing into aftermarket services and end-of-life aircraft management, creating a more comprehensive aviation services platform.
James Meyler, chief executive of ORIX Aviation, characterised AerFin as having built a leading aviation aftermarket platform supported by extensive technical expertise and an international customer base. The combination of both businesses is intended to strengthen ORIX Aviation's position across the entire aircraft lifecycle.
What have company leaders said?
Simon Goodson, AerFin's chief executive, described the acquisition as a defining moment in the company's history.
I am delighted that AerFin is joining the ORIX Group, a business that shares our values and belief in trusted partnerships, flexible solutions and finding the way ahead for our customers.
Goodson added that support from the wider ORIX Group would provide the confidence and platform necessary to expand the aviation business.
This is a defining moment in AerFin's story and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
Founder Bob James expressed satisfaction with the transaction, viewing ORIX Aviation as a long-term home capable of supporting AerFin's next phase of expansion.
I recognise a strong leadership team and a long-term home when I see one.
What happens next?
AerFin will continue operating under its established brand, supported by ORIX Aviation's global network and financial resources. The acquisition positions the company to leverage ORIX Aviation's international presence and capital to pursue further growth opportunities in the aviation aftermarket sector.
The deal reflects broader investment activity in UK aviation maintenance and repair services. GE Aerospace is investing £57m to expand its aircraft maintenance facility at Prestwick, while Ryanair has been offered a £67m subsidy to establish an engine maintenance facility in Northern Ireland, demonstrating sustained industry confidence in UK aviation infrastructure development.
