SMBC Aviation Capital, along with Sumitomo Corporation, Apollo and Brookfield, has completed the $7.4 billion acquisition of Air Lease Corporation after securing all regulatory approvals.
The deal, first announced in September 2025, provides Air Lease shareholders with $65 per share in cash. Including debt assumptions, the total transaction value reaches $28.2 billion. Air Lease, a major U.S.-based aircraft lessor, has been renamed Sumisho Air Lease Corporation.
Ownership is divided with Sumitomo Corporation holding 37.51%, SMBC Aviation Capital at 24.99%, and both Apollo and Brookfield at 18.75% each. The acquisition creates one of the largest aircraft leasing firms globally, combining fleets exceeding 1,000 aircraft.
Noriyuki Hiruta, CEO of Sumisho Air Lease Corporation, stated that the company, with its modern fuel-efficient fleet and investment-grade profile, is positioned to address airline and investor demands in a changing market. He noted the backing of the new owners provides scale and expertise for long-term partnerships.
SMBC Aviation Capital indicated the move strengthens its leasing services, with plans to focus on sustainable growth and asset efficiency. Sumisho Air Lease aims to invest in new-technology, environmentally friendly aircraft and expand financing through global capital markets.