Home / Business and Economy / Dubai Aero & Blackstone Launch $1.6B Jet Leasing Program
Dubai Aero & Blackstone Launch $1.6B Jet Leasing Program
9 Apr
Summary
- DAE and Blackstone Credit are launching the Equator leasing program.
- The venture aims to deploy $1.6 billion annually for aircraft leasing.
- The program will build a global portfolio of commercial aircraft.
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) and Blackstone Credit and Insurance have announced the launch of a new joint aircraft leasing investment program, branded Equator. This strategic venture is set to deploy approximately $1.6 billion annually with the goal of building a diverse portfolio of commercial aircraft. These aircraft will be leased to airlines across the globe.
Under the Equator program, DAE will be responsible for sourcing aircraft from third-party providers. Its Aircraft Investor Services unit will manage these assets, ensuring efficient operation and maintenance. This move represents a significant expansion for alternative asset managers entering the aviation finance sector.
The growth in institutional interest within aviation finance is driven by increasing aircraft supply constraints, which in turn are pushing lease rates higher. Blackstone Credit and Insurance's Infrastructure and Asset Based Credit Group manages over $100 billion. Capital for Equator will include investments from funds managed by ITE Management, a key partner of Blackstone Credit and Insurance.
