WS Investor
09 Apr 2026, 19:45
**Blackstone and DAE Launch $1.6B Annual Aviation Leasing Investment Program**
Blackstone and Dubai Aerospace Enterprise announced a partnership to launch “Equator,” a global aircraft leasing investment program targeting approximately $1.6 billion in annual deployment.
The initiative will focus on acquiring commercial aircraft leased to airlines worldwide, building a diversified portfolio backed by long-term aviation demand. DAE will source and manage the assets through its Aircraft Investor Services division, while Blackstone Credit & Insurance will provide flexible capital across the investment lifecycle.
The program reflects growing investor interest in asset-backed financing strategies, particularly in aviation, where demand for leased aircraft remains strong amid global travel recovery.
Both firms said the partnership leverages DAE’s operational expertise and airline relationships alongside Blackstone’s large-scale credit investment capabilities to expand in the aviation leasing market.
Blackstone and Dubai Aerospace Enterprise announced a partnership to launch “Equator,” a global aircraft leasing investment program targeting approximately $1.6 billion in annual deployment.
The initiative will focus on acquiring commercial aircraft leased to airlines worldwide, building a diversified portfolio backed by long-term aviation demand. DAE will source and manage the assets through its Aircraft Investor Services division, while Blackstone Credit & Insurance will provide flexible capital across the investment lifecycle.
The program reflects growing investor interest in asset-backed financing strategies, particularly in aviation, where demand for leased aircraft remains strong amid global travel recovery.
Both firms said the partnership leverages DAE’s operational expertise and airline relationships alongside Blackstone’s large-scale credit investment capabilities to expand in the aviation leasing market.
