Flying has always represented both ingenuity and boundless opportunity to Deepak Sharma, CEO of Aircraft Finance Lease Ltd. (AFL), who has spent more than two decades turning that passion into groundbreaking achievements in aviation finance and leadership. As chief executive officer of AFL, Sharma is reshaping how the industry approaches aircraft financing and leasing solutions.
“Dream big,” Sharma says, reflecting on the advice he would give his younger self. “But ground those dreams in action.” This philosophy has guided him through a career marked by over $5 billion in aircraft deals and life-changing leadership roles across the aviation industry. His journey from hands-on engineer to CEO illustrates the power of combining technical skills with strategic leadership.
Since starting AFL in 2019, Deepak Sharma has grown the company into a reliable partner for aircraft and engine lessors across the globe. By creating tailored financing solutions that meet the changing needs of today’s aviation industry, he has built AFL into a key player in tackling the complexities of international aerospace finance, especially during times of global economic uncertainty.
Deepak Sharma Builds Success Through Strategic Vision
Sharma’s journey to becoming a leader in aviation started with hands-on work. He earned a degree in aircraft engineering and a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) license in multiple categories, giving him a solid technical foundation. He then built on that with advanced studies in aviation, contract law, and business administration, which set him up for bigger roles in the industry. His early career experiences at British Aerospace and Brymon Airways Engineering, a British Airways subsidiary, provided crucial insights into the operational complexities of commercial aviation.
“Integrity, innovation, and excellence form the backbone of my leadership philosophy,” Sharma says, describing the core values that drive his approach. These values have been his guide through tough negotiations, including closing deals worth over $1.8 billion. Those deals meant bringing together teams from around the world and steering through unpredictable markets. “By implementing solutions,” he adds. “I delivered operational efficiencies and cost savings that redefined expectations,” highlighting how technical knowledge combined with strategic vision can transform industry standards.
The aviation industry is full of ups and downs and constant technological shifts, so it needs leaders who can stay ahead of the curve and adapt quickly. Sharma’s engineering background has been a huge advantage, giving him a deep understanding of both the technical and financial sides of aircraft leasing. This well-rounded perspective lets Sharma create smarter, more effective financing solutions that take into account both how the aircraft are used and what the market needs at AFL.
From Engineering to Executive Leadership
Before establishing AFL, Sharma served as president of Integrated Solutions at a major aviation services provider, where he expanded the organization’s portfolio through innovative solutions. This role helped him see how different parts of the aviation industry are connected and why tackling challenges requires a big-picture approach.
His earlier position as chief technical officer at AJW Group saw him leading projects that set new standards for efficiency and innovation. During his tenure as engineering director at UK International Airlines, Sharma successfully launched their operations and engineering department, earning recognition for his outstanding contributions to the airline’s development.
“The aviation industry thrives on resilience, adaptability, and bold thinking,” Sharma notes, reflecting on the qualities that have defined his career progression from technical roles to executive leadership. These characteristics have proven essential in building AFL into a company that can respond effectively to industry challenges while maintaining a focus on long-term growth and sustainability.
Throughout his career transitions, Deepak Sharma has maintained a dedication to hands-on involvement in critical projects. This approach has won him respect across the industry and helped him build strong connections with key players, from airline leaders to maintenance teams. His knack for understanding both the technical and financial sides of the business has been a huge advantage, helping him bring together different parts of the industry that don’t always see eye to eye.
Measuring Success Beyond Numbers
While Sharma’s career includes impressive metrics like achieving six times revenue growth, he measures success through a broader lens. “Success is about creating enduring value,” he explains. “Building businesses, closing transformative deals, and shaping the future of aviation through strategic leadership.” This perspective has influenced AFL’s approach to business, emphasizing sustainable growth over short-term gains.
Drawing inspiration from industry leaders like Richard Branson, Sharma emphasizes the importance of combining innovation with human connection. “His ability to merge innovation with a human touch has influenced my leadership philosophy,” Sharma says. “Reminding me that success is not only about achieving results but also about inspiring teams and making bold, visionary choices.”
Sharma’s leadership style is all about putting people first, and it’s helped him build teams that work well together and get results. He also believes that being good with people and understanding their emotions is just as key. This mix of skills has been especially valuable when working across different countries and cultures, where building trust and clear communication can make or break a deal.
Deepak Sharma’s Innovation in Aviation Finance
Under Sharma’s leadership, AFL has rolled out creative financing solutions that meet the changing needs of the aviation industry. The company blends its deep knowledge of traditional aircraft financing with the latest technology and market trends, offering financial products that are more adaptable and better suited to the sector’s demands.
“Surround yourself with mentors,” Sharma advises, describing the mindset that has helped him identify and capitalize on market opportunities. “Stay curious, and never lose sight of your long-term vision.” This outlook has been especially helpful in creating new financial products that meet the changing needs of aircraft operators and lessors.
Making a Difference Beyond Aviation
Despite his demanding role, Sharma maintains a strong commitment to social responsibility. He currently funds and sponsors a foundation operating a private mental asylum in Asia, supporting approximately 70 mentally challenged women, many of whom are survivors of trauma. “In society,” he says. “The stigma that these vulnerable individuals carry often leads to them being deserted by their families and living on the streets in horrific conditions. Supporting them aligns with my values of compassion and making a positive impact on the world.” This initiative reflects his belief in using business success to create a positive social impact.
“Balance is about clarity of purpose and disciplined prioritization,” Sharma explains, talking about how he handles the pressures of leading in a global industry while still making time for social impact work. He makes mindfulness and wellness part of his daily routine to keep his energy and focus sharp, understanding that being a strong leader means taking care of both his body and mind.
Sharma is also deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of leaders in aviation, showing how much he cares about making a difference that lasts. “One of the most rewarding experiences of my career was mentoring a young engineer who struggled with self-confidence,” he says. “With encouragement and guidance, they not only led a critical project but also became a recognized leader in the field.”
Sharma’s dedication to shaping the next generation of leaders goes beyond one-on-one mentoring. Through his work with industry groups and his role as a Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society (FRAeS), he helps create opportunities for up-and-coming professionals in aviation and aerospace.
Looking to the future, Deepak Sharma sees huge potential for innovation in aviation finance, especially when it comes to developing greener and more tech-driven solutions. His vision for AFL includes playing a bigger part in helping the industry shift toward more efficient aircraft and operations, all while staying focused on delivering value for everyone involved.
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Deepak Sharma of Aircraft Finance Lease Ltd (AFL) Transforms Aviation Finance Through Leadership