With the continuous development of aviation industry, aviation investment banking has become a popular career choice for many finance professionals. An aviation investment banking degree can open doors to lucrative careers in top investment banks and financial institutions. This article will explore what is aviation investment banking, why it is a good career option, what are the top schools offering aviation investment banking degrees, curriculum overview, career prospects and how to advance in this niche industry.
What is aviation investment banking and why it is a promising career
Aviation investment banking refers to investment banking activities focused on the aviation industry. It involves advising aviation companies on mergers, acquisitions, IPOs, debt financing, and other strategic transactions. As the aviation industry keeps growing rapidly, there is increasing demand for aviation banking expertise to serve this sector. An aviation investment banking degree equips students with aviation domain knowledge coupled with finance skills, making them highly coveted by top investment banks. Aviation banking offers higher pay, niche expertise development and accelerated career growth for talented candidates.
Top universities for aviation investment banking degrees
Some of the top global universities offering specialized aviation investment banking degrees include Toulouse Business School, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, Lynn University and Florida Institute of Technology. These schools design the curriculum to cover both aviation and finance comprehensively, along with internships at aviation companies and investment banks. The programs aim to prepare students for aviation banking roles like associate, analyst, relationship manager and vice president positions at top firms.
Curriculum overview of aviation investment banking degrees
The curriculum of an aviation investment banking degree provides strong foundations in both aviation and finance. The core courses teach aircraft asset management, airline financial analysis, aviation law and regulations, corporate finance, financial modeling, business valuation, M&A analysis etc. Electives allow students to take advanced courses in equity analysis, credit analysis, risk management, aircraft leasing and finance. Capstone projects and internships also form a key component of the program. Students gain hands-on experience in areas like marketing aircraft debt, advising on aviation M&A deals, airline balance sheet analysis and more.
Career prospects and growth in aviation investment banking
An aviation investment banking degree unlocks attractive career opportunities in top investment banks, aircraft leasing firms, aviation consulting companies and more. Graduates can start as analysts or associates supporting aviation banking teams. With 2-3 years experience, professionals can progress to senior analysts, VPs and directors of aviation coverage teams at global banks. Domain expertise in aviation is highly valued and enables faster promotions. Senior aviation bankers can make $300k-$500k in total compensation. Continuous skills upgrade through CFA, FRM, CPA boost long term career potential.
An aviation investment banking degree develops niche aviation finance expertise combined with strong financial analysis skills, preparing graduates for lucrative careers at top firms. Students gain domain knowledge as well as hands-on experience through internships. Professionals can progress to leadership roles in aviation banking with experience and expertise.