Gallagher has announced the integration of the AssuredPartners aviation team into its global aerospace practice, creating a division of nearly 600 specialist risk professionals worldwide.

In the US, the integration brings together 190 colleagues across 10 locations. Eric Barfield, formerly head of the AssuredPartners aerospace practice, will lead the combined US general aviation team as its new president. Barfield and his team will work alongside Gallagher's large and complex risks aviation unit, which continues to grow under US CEO Steve Lloyd.

Tyler LaMantia, previously head of Gallagher's US general aviation team, will now focus on his expanded responsibilities leading Gallagher's San Diego operations.

Global reach and capabilities

Gallagher’s London-headquartered global practice has another 400 colleagues operating across Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, Australasia, the Middle East, and Africa. The practice provides specialist knowledge covering every aspect of the aerospace industry, from commercial and general aviation to complex risks and emerging sectors.

Peter Elson, global CEO of aviation and aerospace at Gallagher, said the integration combines two market-leading teams to create the “largest and strongest group of aviation and aerospace risk professionals anywhere in the world.” He added that the move will enhance Gallagher’s ability to deliver value and innovation to clients and partners in 2026, while reflecting recent growth in the client base.

Increasing competition in the market

The consolidation signals increasing competition in the US aviation insurance market, which remains highly specialized and capital-intensive. By combining two established teams, Gallagher positions itself to capture larger general aviation accounts, expand capacity for complex aerospace risks, and offer more tailored solutions to brokers and clients.

The integration also strengthens Gallagher’s ability to leverage global data, analytics, and claims expertise, allowing for more accurate underwriting and risk mitigation strategies. As insurers and brokers respond to evolving fleet technologies, regulatory changes, and post-pandemic travel growth, the expanded team gives Gallagher a competitive advantage in securing high-value accounts and retaining clients in a market where scale, expertise, and service depth are key differentiators.

The consolidation positions Gallagher to leverage expanded expertise and global reach, providing brokers and clients with broader resources for underwriting, risk management, and claims handling across all segments of aviation and aerospace insurance.