Prime Highlights
- Dubai Aerospace Enterprise will acquire Macquarie AirFinance in a $7 billion deal, creating a combined fleet of 1,029 aircraft.
- The acquisition positions DAE among the world’s top aircraft leasing companies and strengthens its global market presence.
Key Facts
- The combined fleet will serve 191 airlines across 79 countries, with narrowbody aircraft making up about 70% of the portfolio.
- The deal has received board approval and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory clearances.
Background:
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) said on Thursday that it will buy Macquarie AirFinance for about $7 billion. The deal will expand DAE’s aircraft portfolio and strengthen its position in the global market. After the acquisition, the combined company will own 1,029 aircraft, making DAE one of the largest aircraft leasing companies in the world.
Once completed, the combined entity will serve 191 airlines across 79 countries. Narrowbody aircraft will make up around 70 percent of the total fleet, reflecting steady demand for short- and medium-haul travel. The transaction will also add 37 new airline customers to DAE’s portfolio, including carriers in seven countries where it currently has no operations.
Analysts believe the deal will fast-track DAE’s rise into the top tier of global lessors, alongside major players such as AerCap Holdings N.V. and SMBC Aviation Capital.
CEO Firoz Tarapore said the deal will make the company stronger and help it offer better prices and services to airlines.
The company will fund the deal using a mix of debt and equity. DAE is owned by the Investment Corporation of Dubai, the main investment arm of the Dubai government, showing its focus on growing in global aviation finance.
The deal has been approved by the board and is now waiting for regulatory approvals. Dubai Aerospace Enterprise expects to complete the deal in the second half of 2026.
