From an early age, aviation captured Joe Dini's imagination. His first flight in 1945, at just four years old, was in a late 1930s Aeronca 50, piloted by his sister’s boyfriend. Secured only by a clothesline rope behind the rear seat, that experience ignited a lifelong passion for flying. As a teenager in the 1950s, he took to the skies in an open cockpit PT-19, further cementing his love for aviation. His journey continued with preflight training as a Midshipman at Pensacola Naval Air Station in 1962, and he has been a private pilot for decades.
Entering the World of Aircraft Finance
His career in finance began in 1967 at Bankers Leasing in Boston, where he managed equipment leasing programs across various transportation sectors. In 1973, he joined Arlington Leasing in Lexington, MA, where he facilitated the lease of nearly 100 aircraft, starting with an MU-2 to a Hollywood star. Arlington’s acquisition by Integrated Resources in 1977 introduced him to tax-motivated leasing structures, enabling innovative short-term jet aircraft leasing. By 1985, his expertise had contributed to nearly a billion dollars in aircraft financing and leasing transactions.
Climbing the Ranks in Aviation Finance
In 1985, he took on the role of president at First NH Resources, expanding the bank’s aircraft and equipment leasing capabilities. His journey then led him to Airfund, an American Finance Group company, where he was involved in financing the transition from Boeing 737s to the new 757 model. By 1988, he was recruited by DPF Group to establish an aircraft finance and leasing division, covering both business and airline aircraft. Around this time, he joined the National Aircraft Finance Association (NAFA) and built lasting professional relationships, including one with industry leader Lou Seno.
In 1992, he ventured into entrepreneurship, founding his own aircraft finance brokerage and consulting company, later selling it to FINOVA Capital. He continued leading business aircraft financing at FINOVA before launching Air Credit Alliance in 2000. His expertise was sought after by GMAC and Merrill Lynch Capital, where he spearheaded business aircraft financing initiatives. By 2004, he joined Sovereign Bank, marking his first foray into financing owner-flown aircraft.
After financing and leasing over $2.5 billion in aircraft, he transitioned into semi-retirement in 2010 by joining the board of AOPA Aircraft Finance. Alongside his professional achievements, he served twice as NAFA’s president and remains an active consultant in the industry.
The Power of Collaboration and Mentorship
Reflecting on his career, he credits NAFA with expanding his industry knowledge and visibility. “I feel that my joining NAFA significantly broadened my knowledge of aviation finance by interfacing with so many icons in the industry,” he remarks. “Without NAFA, my career would have been stagnant.”
The association provided him with opportunities to contribute to aviation finance panels and collaborate with esteemed professionals like Lou Seno, Dick Ramsden, Mike Amalfitano, and Wayne Starling. However, his most rewarding experiences came from mentoring and witnessing the success of those he hired.
His greatest mentor, Tom Hiniker, played a crucial role in shaping his career. Hiniker provided him with his first marketing position at Arlington Leasing and later offered him an ownership stake. Hiniker’s own transition from business aircraft leasing to airline finance left a lasting impression and set a standard for leadership and innovation.
Advice for the Next Generation
For those aspiring to build a career in aviation finance, he emphasizes the importance of mentorship and knowledge-sharing. “Success comes from sharing knowledge and mentoring others. I encourage all members of NAFA to follow this path,” he comments, “giving is a reward in and of itself.” His philosophy is simple: success is not just about personal achievement but about uplifting others. He encourages all NAFA members to embrace mentorship, believing that the greatest reward comes from guiding the next wave of industry leaders.
Through decades of dedication, innovation, and leadership, Joe Dini's legacy in aviation finance continues to inspire both seasoned professionals and newcomers alike.
This article was originally published by NAFA on February 5, 2025.