Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd and Blackstone Credit & Insurance (BXCI) have agreed to launch Equator, a long-term global investment program targeting approximately $1.6 billion annually in aircraft leased to commercial airlines.
The initiative, announced from Dubai and New York on April 9, 2026, aims to build a diversified portfolio of commercial aircraft leased to leading airlines worldwide. DAE will source the assets from third parties, while its Aircraft Investor Services group manages the holdings under Equator.
DAE, a global aviation services corporation, will leverage its fleet management expertise and network to support the program. Firoz Tarapore, DAE CEO, stated that Blackstone’s financial backing strengthens their capabilities, positioning the partnership to grow a significant aircraft portfolio.
The program focuses on opportunities across key markets, combining DAE’s industry knowledge with Blackstone’s investment resources.