Aircastle Announces Leadership Transition as Chief Legal Officer Retires
Aircastle Limited, a prominent player in the global commercial aircraft leasing industry, is undergoing a significant leadership transition. Christopher Beers, the company’s Chief Legal Officer (CLO) since 2014, has announced his retirement, effective February 28, 2025. Beers’ departure marks the end of a decade of service, during which he guided Aircastle’s legal strategy through periods of significant industry challenges.
However, Beers will not be completely leaving the company. He will transition to a Senior Advisor role for up to a year, focusing on the resolution of Russian insurance claims and related litigation, a crucial task for Aircastle’s ongoing operations.
In a seamless move, Aircastle has promoted Sarah Clarkin to the position of Chief Legal Officer, effective March 1, 2025. Clarkin, who joined Aircastle in 2006, has consistently risen through the ranks, holding various leadership positions. Most recently, she served as Associate General Counsel, where she played a key role in numerous high-value cross-border transactions, instrumental to Aircastle’s growth. Her promotion signifies the company’s commitment to recognizing and nurturing internal talent, ensuring a smooth leadership transition.
Clarkin brings a wealth of legal experience to the role. Prior to joining Aircastle, she honed her skills as an associate at McCann FitzGerald LLP, one of Ireland’s leading law firms. She holds a Diploma of Legal Studies from the Dublin Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Arts from University College Dublin. Clarkin’s expertise in aviation leasing, combined with her extensive legal background, positions her perfectly to lead Aircastle through the challenges and opportunities of the evolving aviation industry.
CEO Mike Inglese expressed gratitude for Beers’ contributions over the past decade, particularly his leadership during times of regulatory and operational complexity. “We are deeply thankful for Chris’s tireless work and dedication to Aircastle,” said Inglese. “His legal acumen and strategic insight have been invaluable to our success over the past ten years. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.”
Regarding Clarkin’s appointment, Inglese stated, “Since 2006, Sarah has proven herself as an integral part of our legal team, demonstrating exceptional leadership and expertise. Her deep understanding of the legal and operational aspects of the aviation leasing industry makes her the perfect successor to lead our legal strategy going forward. We look forward to Sarah’s continued contributions in her new role as Chief Legal Officer.”
Aircastle Limited, headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, is a prominent leader in the global commercial aircraft leasing sector. The company is involved in acquiring, leasing, and selling commercial jet aircraft to airlines worldwide. As of August 31, 2024, Aircastle managed a fleet of 253 aircraft, leased to 78 airline customers in 46 countries, highlighting its significant international presence and influence. Aircastle’s ability to navigate complex cross-border regulations, execute high-value transactions, and maintain strong relationships with its airline customers has positioned it as a major player in the aircraft leasing industry. The company’s strong global presence, supported by its robust legal and operational teams, continues to enable Aircastle to adapt to changes in the aviation market and capitalize on opportunities for growth.
The announcement of Beers’ retirement and Clarkin’s promotion comes at a time of significant change within the global aviation industry. The sector has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing geopolitical tensions, which have impacted air travel and leasing operations. For Aircastle, the handling of complex legal issues, such as the management of Russian insurance claims and litigation, remains a top priority in navigating these turbulent times.
Aircastle’s strategy has been to focus on maintaining strong relationships with its airline clients, managing a diverse and modern fleet, and staying ahead of legal and regulatory shifts in the aviation sector. With Clarkin’s appointment as Chief Legal Officer, the company is well-positioned to continue its focus on legal compliance and operational efficiency, ensuring its continued success in the challenging and dynamic aviation landscape.