Equator Programme to Expand Global Aircraft Leasing Portfolio

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd and Blackstone Credit & Insurance (BXCI) have partnered to launch a new long-term global aircraft investment programme, branded “Equator”, targeting approximately US$1.6 billion in annual deployments.

The Equator programme will develop a diversified portfolio of commercial aircraft leased to leading airlines globally. DAE will source aircraft from third parties, while its Aircraft Investor Services (AIS) group will manage the assets owned by Equator.

Firoz Tarapore, CEO of DAE, said, “Blackstone’s scaled and flexible capital provides a strong foundation to grow our third-party fleet management franchise. Our fleet size, global reach, and dedicated client support make DAE uniquely positioned to support Equator’s long-term success.”

Aneek Mamik, Senior Managing Director at BXCI, added, “This programme expands our aviation capabilities with DAE, a leading lessor with deep technical expertise. Equator underscores BXCI’s focus on deploying flexible capital into high-quality, hard-asset investments.”

BXCI will provide comprehensive capital solutions, enabling flexible and dependable financing across market cycles. Its investor group will include funds managed by ITE Management, L.P., a strategic BXCI partner.

DAE manages approximately 700 aircraft, including over 100 aircraft valued at more than US$4 billion as of December 31, 2025, making it one of the world’s largest aircraft lessors. The company provides management services for 17 institutional and financial investors.

BXCI’s Infrastructure and Asset-Based Credit Group manages over US$100 billion with 90+ investment professionals, focusing on investment-grade credit, structured finance, and real-economy assets including infrastructure, commercial, and real estate lending.