Blackstone has teamed with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise to launch a new aircraft‑leasing initiative called “Equator,” aiming for roughly $1.6 billion in annual investments. The program will acquire commercial jets leased to airlines worldwide, building a portfolio spread across regions, partners, and aircraft types. Blackstone will supply capital, while DAE will source and manage assets through its Aircraft Investor Services platform.

DAE currently manages, owns, and has commitments for about 700 aircraft, including more than 100 jets valued at over $4 billion under its management and commitments. The partnership signals private‑equity investors’ growing appetite for asset‑backed strategies that deliver tangible collateral and predictable, long‑term cash flows. By targeting a diversified mix, the deal seeks to mitigate sector volatility while locking in steady lease income.

Senior Managing Director Aneek Mamik of Blackstone X Capital Partners commented that expanding aviation capabilities alongside DAE, a leading lessor with deep technical expertise and longstanding airline ties, underscores BXCI’s focus on flexible capital in high‑quality, hard‑asset investments. The deal will draw funds from Blackstone‑managed vehicles and strategic partners such as ITE Management, broadening the investor base behind the initiative.

The Equator program positions Blackstone and DAE to capture a share of the global aircraft‑leasing market, where demand from airlines continues to rise amid fleet renewal cycles. With a sizable capital commitment and a proven asset base, the partnership could set a new benchmark for private‑equity involvement in aviation leasing, delivering stable returns for investors while supporting airlines’ growth.