Novus Aviation Capital, a Dubai-based aircraft leasing and financing platform, has launched Tamweel Aviation Finance III (TAF III), its third secured second-lien debt fund focused on Airbus aircraft financing. The closed-end fund is co-sponsored by Airbus, Development Bank of Japan Inc., and Novus, with Novus serving as the manager.
Separate reports indicate Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group (SMTG), through its banking arm Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank (SMTB), is targeting $500 million for a new aircraft leasing fund. This initiative, the third collaboration between SMTG and Novus following funds in 2016 and 2019, will acquire Boeing and Airbus jets for leasing to airlines worldwide. SMTG aims to attract investors from Japan, Asia, and the Middle East, expanding beyond domestic institutional backers.
The launches come amid aircraft supply shortages, with manufacturers Boeing and Airbus facing delivery delays. Airlines are increasingly turning to leases to meet demand, creating opportunities in the global aviation finance market. TAF III targets airlines and lessors needing financing beyond traditional senior debt structures, while the SMTG fund seeks predictable rental income from scarce aircraft.