KKR is increasing its ownership in Altavair, a Washington-based aircraft leasing firm, and its sister company, AV AirFinance. The private equity giant has committed over $5 billion to aircraft leasing and lending deals since its strategic partnership with Altavair began in 2018.

The move deepens KKR's foothold in a sector that has seen strong demand for financing. Altavair has facilitated more than $14.5 billion in commercial aircraft lease transactions since 2003, serving over 80 airlines across 50 countries with more than 300 Boeing and Airbus jets.

Leadership changes accompany the stake increase. Matthew Hoesley, Altavair's chief commercial officer, will become president and chief commercial officer, while Andrew Carpenter, head of tax and accounting, will assume the CFO role. These appointments signal KKR's intent to steer the firm's next growth phase.