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Dubai Aerospace Enterprise to Acquire Macquarie AirFinance

February 26, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

DAE to acquire 100% of Macquarie AirFinance for $7 billion.
Combined fleet will total 1,029 aircraft.
Deal expected to close in second half of 2026.
DAE to gain 37 new airline customers.

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Strategic Implications

This acquisition may signal a significant shift in the aircraft leasing market, as DAE's expanded fleet and customer base could strengthen its competitive position. The deal suggests a trend towards consolidation in the industry, which could lead to increased efficiency and reduced costs for airlines.

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What Happened

Seven Billion Dollar Deal Creates Global Aircraft Leasing Giant

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Macquarie AirFinance (MAF) for $7 billion, pending regulatory approvals. The deal will create a combined portfolio of 1,029 owned, managed, and committed aircraft, with 191 airline customers in 79 countries. DAE’s fleet will more than double in size compared to year-end 2024, with narrowbody aircraft representing approximately 70% of the combined fleet. The acquisition was announced by DAE on February 26, 2026, and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, as reported by AeroTime.

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