Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100 percent of Macquarie AirFinance Limited (MAF) in a transaction valued at approximately $7 billion.
Upon completion, the combined entity will operate a pro forma fleet of 1,029 owned, managed, and committed aircraft, serving 191 airline customers across 79 countries.
Strategic expansion and financial strength
Narrow-body aircraft will account for approximately 70 percent of the enlarged fleet, reinforcing the company’s strategic focus on fuel-efficient, high-demand assets.
The acquisition will add 37 new airline customers to DAE’s portfolio, including operators in seven new country markets, further diversifying geographic exposure and strengthening its global footprint.
The transaction will be financed through a balanced combination of debt and equity, structured to preserve DAE’s current investment-grade credit ratings. The company emphasized that maintaining financial discipline remains a priority as it scales operations.
Khalifa H. AlDaboos Managing Director DAE
“This transaction demonstrates the shareholder’s long-standing commitment to making DAE one of the world’s most preeminent aircraft leasing companies. It continues DAE’s tradition of acquiring established platforms and fleets that are franchise-enhancing and represent exceptional shareholder value.”
Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, highlighted that, “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 increased scale and enhanced order book will allow us to serve additional customers with competitively priced offerings, reflecting the synergies associated with our new scale.”
The acquisition has been approved by DAE’s Board of Directors and remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.
DAE was advised on the transaction by Allen Overy Shearman Sterling LLP and KPMG. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026.
