DAE and Blackstone Credit & Insurance (BXCI) have launched Equator, a multi-billion-dollar global aviation leasing investment platform targeting $1.6 billion in annual aircraft deployments. The initiative focuses on building a diversified portfolio of commercial aircraft leased to leading airlines worldwide.
DAE will source assets from third parties, leveraging its expertise in aircraft acquisition. Its Aircraft Investor Services (AIS) arm will manage Equator’s owned assets, ensuring operational efficiency.
The platform addresses growing demand in key aviation markets amid fleet expansion by airlines. BXCI’s investor group includes capital from funds managed by ITE Management, L.P., a strategic partner.
This partnership strengthens DAE’s position as a major lessor while expanding BXCI’s footprint in aviation finance. Equator’s scale positions it to capture opportunities in a recovering post-pandemic leasing sector.