JULY 1ST, 2025

Ishka and Airfinance Global announce merger to form aviation finance intelligence powerhouse

The merger brings together two of the most respected and influential names in aviation finance intelligence to form a global powerhouse, delivering next-generation data, analytics, and greater value to aviation finance professionals worldwide.

Ishka is recognised as a pioneer in aviation finance intelligence. Its innovative portfolio embeds airline credit risk, aircraft pricing intelligence, and data-driven analysis directly into the workflows of lessors, banks, investors and airlines.

Ishka plays a critical role in powering strategic decision-making, from portfolio planning to aircraft and financing transactions, and is a vital source of intelligence when navigating market conditions and trading. Its global events programme further reinforces its position as a trusted, independent voice in the industry.

With a legacy spanning more than 45 years, AFG stands at the forefront of aviation finance intelligence. Renowned by market participants around the world, AFG has built a reputation for delivering essential airline and aircraft financial data, cutting-edge analysis, and shaping critical market insight.

Its proprietary platform, widely regarded as one of the most comprehensive aviation finance databases in the industry, empowers customers to identify opportunities and execute transactions with clarity and confidence.

United by a shared commitment to independence, transparency, and customer value, the newly combined business will provide deeper market insight, enhanced forecasting capabilities, and broader global coverage, serving stakeholders across the aviation finance ecosystem, from portfolio strategy and risk management to deal origination and execution.

“This merger marks a transformational step forward for aviation finance intelligence,” said Chris Keene, Managing Director of Ishka and now leading the newly combined business. “Together, Ishka and AFG bring complementary strengths that allow us to accelerate product innovation and deliver greater value to our customers across the global market.”

Gehan Talwatte, Chairman of the unified business added: “This merger unlocks data to provide solutions that go deeper into customer workflows. We are leading the consolidation that will redefine the data and intelligence landscape in aviation finance.”

Andrew Pinder, Group CEO at Delinian, former owner of AFG commented: “This is an exciting opportunity for AFG. AFG and Ishka are very well respected in the aviation finance industry, offering complementary data, insight and events services. The merger of the two will, I’m sure, be accretive, enabling both to flourish and grow from their solid foundations. I wish the AFG and Ishka teams, and their new owners, much success in their future endeavours together.”

Ann Kathrin Kotte, MD of AFG who will lead the integration of AFG with Ishka, added: “AFG has been a mainstay of the aviation finance industry for nearly five decades – shaped by the dedication of its people and the trust of its clients. This merger with entrepreneurial and highly complementary Ishka marks an important new chapter, building on our proud history whilst offering fresh opportunities for growth. It is a privilege to now lead the integration of AFG as we move forward together with Ishka.”