This article is based on an official press release from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE).

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise to Acquire Macquarie AirFinance in $7 Billion Deal

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd has announced a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of Macquarie AirFinance Limited (MAF) in an all-cash transaction. The deal, which carries an approximate enterprise value of US$7 billion, represents a significant expansion for the Dubai-based lessor, pushing its combined fleet to over 1,000 aircraft.

According to the company’s announcement on February 26, 2026, the Acquisitions is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to customary regulatory approvals. The transaction will be funded through a mix of debt and equity, a strategy DAE states is designed to support its current investment-grade credit ratings.

Transaction Overview and Strategic Scale

The acquisition of Macquarie AirFinance will dramatically increase DAE’s global footprint. Upon completion, the combined company will possess a pro forma fleet of 1,029 owned, managed, and committed aircraft. This expanded portfolio will serve 191 Airlines customers across 79 countries.

DAE noted that the deal will bring 37 new airline customers into its fold and expand its reach into seven new countries. The composition of the combined fleet will remain heavily focused on single-aisle jets, with narrowbody aircraft representing approximately 70% of the total portfolio.

Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, highlighted the scale of the integration in a statement:

“We are thrilled at this opportunity to bring the fleet and people of MAF into our fold and create a bigger, stronger, more diversified, and well-capitalized aircraft leasing company. […] Our industrial-strength platform will effortlessly handle the onboarding of this transaction which, when completed, will more than double DAE’s fleet size compared to year-end 2024.”

Leadership Commentary

The transaction underscores DAE’s long-term Strategy of growth through the acquisition of established leasing platforms. Khalifa AlDaboos, Managing Director of DAE, emphasized the shareholder commitment behind the deal.

“This transaction demonstrates the shareholder’s long-standing commitment to making DAE one of the world’s most preeminent aircraft leasing companies. This transaction continues DAE’s tradition of acquiring established platforms and fleets that are franchise enhancing in nature and represent exceptional shareholder value.”

DAE has retained Allen Overy Shearman Sterling LLP and KPMG as advisors for the transaction.

AirPro News Analysis

This acquisition marks another major consolidation event in the global aircraft leasing sector. By targeting Macquarie AirFinance, DAE is effectively doubling its size relative to its 2024 baseline, reinforcing its position as a top-tier global lessor. The focus on a 70% narrowbody fleet aligns with current Market-Analysis, as single-aisle aircraft continue to lead the post-pandemic recovery and fleet renewal cycles for airlines worldwide. The $7 billion enterprise value suggests a strong valuation of MAF’s assets, reflecting confidence in the long-term stability of the leasing market.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the deal expected to close?
DAE expects the transaction to close in the second half of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.

How will the deal be funded?
The acquisition is an all-cash transaction funded by a combination of debt and equity.

What is the size of the combined fleet?
The combined entity will have a pro forma fleet of 1,029 owned, managed, and committed aircraft.

Sources: Dubai Aerospace Enterprise