Inside Aviation M&A: Felipe Cabezas on Deals, Discipline, and the Dynamics of a Global Market

27 minutes ago
4 min read

From airline acquisitions to emerging aviation sectors, dealmaking today requires precision, adaptability, and a global perspective.

Published: 1 May 2026

Written by: Shreya Majumder

Pilot Jobs | Aircraft Engineering Jobs | Aviation Careers 

In the complex world of aviation finance and mergers and acquisitions, few roles demand as much precision, discretion, and global perspective as that of a dealmaker.

At Brookfield Aviation Finance, Felipe Cabezas has spent over four years navigating this landscape, working across transactions that range from private jet sales to full airline acquisitions. His experience offers a clear view into both the realities of aviation dealmaking and the direction of the market.

From Analysis to Execution

Felipe’s entry into aviation finance was built on a strong analytical foundation.

Before joining Brookfield, he worked at the Colombian Stock Exchange as a researcher and analyst, focusing on financial markets and equity trends. “It was very data-driven,” he reflects. “A lot of time spent analysing numbers and building reports, valuable experience, but quite removed from the human side of business.”

That human element now defines his role.

As a Business Developer at Brookfield, Felipe operates at the intersection of strategy, relationships, and execution. He is involved throughout the lifecycle of a transaction, from sourcing opportunities and engaging stakeholders to structuring deals and guiding them through to completion.

“You’re not just working with numbers,” he explains. “You’re working with people, business owners, CEOs, investors, all with different motivations and expectations.”

That human element is exactly what defines his current role. As a Business Developer at Brookfield, Felipe operates at the intersection of strategy, relationships, and execution. He is involved throughout the lifecycle of a transaction, from sourcing opportunities and engaging stakeholders to structuring deals and guiding them through to closing. “You’re not just working with numbers,” he explains. “You’re working with people, business owners, CEOs, investors, all with different motivations and expectations.”

A Market Defined by Variety

One of the defining aspects of Felipe’s work is the diversity of mandates.

He has contributed to transactions involving airline sales, aircraft deals, MRO operations, and emerging sectors such as drone technology. Each deal brings its own strategic considerations, reflecting the breadth of the aviation ecosystem.

Among the opportunities currently in progress is the full sale of an active European airline, including an EU AOC, IOSA registration, and IATA membership. Alongside this, Brookfield is advising on an investment involving a cargo drone manufacturer seeking to acquire an EASA-certified aircraft producer, a move aimed at accelerating certification and market entry.

Felipe is also working on the sale of a long-established flight training academy in South America, as well as buy-side mandates for clients in the United States and Europe seeking to acquire EASA AOCs for private aviation use.

“These are well-capitalised clients who are ready to move quickly,” he notes. “It’s about matching the right opportunity with the right intent.”

Managing Complexity and Risk

Despite strong deal flow, the environment remains dynamic.

Market volatility continues to influence transaction timelines and valuations. External factors, including fuel prices, geopolitical developments, and macroeconomic conditions, can shift deal dynamics quickly. As Felipe explains, adaptability and long-term thinking are essential.

Client commitment is another key factor. Not every opportunity progresses as planned, and late-stage changes can disrupt execution. Brookfield addresses this through a more selective approach, prioritising clients who are aligned and prepared for the transaction process.

Confidentiality remains fundamental. In a sector where information is highly sensitive, maintaining trust is critical. Structured diligence and a vetted global network ensure credibility across all parties involved.

The Value of Experience and Network

Felipe highlights Brookfield’s long-standing presence in aviation as a key differentiator.

With roots dating back to 1993 through Brookfield Aviation International, the firm has built a global network spanning the aviation value chain. This reach enables Brookfield to operate not only as an intermediary, but as a strategic partner.

“That reach gives us a unique advantage,” Felipe says. “We’re able to connect opportunities and stakeholders on a global scale.”

What Comes Next

For Felipe, the most rewarding aspect of the role remains the completion of a deal.

“From the first conversation to the final agreement, it’s a process that requires alignment, trust, and persistence. Being part of that journey is incredibly satisfying.”

Looking ahead, his ambitions align closely with Brookfield’s growth trajectory. He aims to work on increasingly complex and high-value transactions while continuing to strengthen the firm’s global presence.

“It’s about building long-term relationships and reinforcing our position as a trusted advisor in aviation M&A.”

Key Facts

Felipe has over four years of experience in aviation finance and M&A at Brookfield Aviation Finance
His work spans airline sales, aircraft transactions, MRO deals, and emerging sectors such as drone technology
Current mandates include a European airline sale and a drone manufacturer acquisition strategy
Clients include investors and operators across Europe and the United States
Market volatility, geopolitics, and fuel prices continue to influence deal dynamics
Brookfield’s network, established since 1993, supports global deal execution
Aviation M&A requires alignment across financial, operational, and strategic stakeholders