KKR, the global asset manager, is making a $1.4 billion equity commitment in a new round of aircraft leasing with partner Altavair.
The investment will be sourced primarily from KKR’s infrastructure and asset-based finance strategies, according to a statement from the company.
Also, the equity stake expands on two prior leasing portfolios that they have created, and which have supported securitization transactions, including the $582.9 million raised from the capital markets in February 2025, to fund the purchase of 24 passenger aircraft.
Since forming its strategic partnership with Altavair in 2018, KKR managed funds have committed more than $8 billion to aircraft leasing and lending transactions. The proceeds have purchased more than 188 aircraft and engine assets, and have leased aircraft and engines to 67 leading airline and cargo operators globally, according to the joint statement
“Nearly a decade of strategic partnership with Altavair has deepened our conviction in the attractiveness of aircraft leasing, which we believe is poised to grow even further as demand for air travel continues to rise and airlines seek more liquidity and fleet flexibility,” according to a statement from Brandon Freiman, Partner and Head of North American Infrastructure at KKR.
The partnership has also financed other aviation transactions, including lessor trades, leasebacks for new and used aircraft direct to airlines, passenger-to-freight conversions.
