Macquarie Asset Management (MAM) has sold its 50 per cent stake in an aircraft leasing platform to Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, while remaining committed to aviation asset-backed finance (ABF).
Macquarie AirFinance (MAF) has been under the stewardship of the Australian-headquartered asset manager since it was established in 2006 and has grown into a global aircraft leasing platform, with a portfolio of 352 commercial aircraft across 48 countries.
Despite the sale of MAF, MAM said it remains committed to the aviation sector through its broader ABF investment strategy, which consists of lending, leasing and aircraft infrastructure.
“MAF’s strong position in the global aircraft leasing market reflects MAM’s long-standing expertise in the sector and its ability to develop and invest in the platforms it manages,” said Peter Glaser, global head of credit and insurance at MAM. “Our business has a strong track record of investing in asset-based finance and will continue to actively pursue opportunities in the sector.”
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The sale is expected to complete in the second half of the 2026 calendar year, according to MAM.
The deal comes as alternative asset managers have been increasing their presence in the commercial aviation market. This month, Willow Wealth invested in a Blue Owl-backed aircraft leasing business operated by aviation investor Crestone Air Partners.
Alongside this, last month, Blackstone entered a strategic aircraft engine leasing partnership with Willis Lease Finance Corporation, with plans to deploy $1bn (£742.3m) over the next two years.
