The aircraft leasing industry in the US facilitates the financing of aircraft, allowing airlines and operators to acquire planes without high upfront costs. This sector comprises various players, including lessors, banks, and private equity firms, each offering tailored solutions to meet specific airline needs. By leasing rather than purchasing, companies maintain operational flexibility and manage financial risk. Interestingly, the rise of sustainable aviation and technological advancements is reshaping the industry’s future, spurring investments in eco-friendly aircraft and digital solutions. The aircraft leasing market is projected to grow as airlines seek innovative financial strategies while navigating evolving environmental regulations.

In 2024, the spectrum of aircraft leasing investors in the US comprised venture capital firms, private equity players, and corporate investors. These 19 notable firms collectively operated from bustling hubs like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, showcasing their vast geographical reach. Their sizes ranged from small start-ups to massive institutions, with deal counts varying substantially. Established between 1812 and 2016, these investors contributed significantly to the aircraft leasing industry with investments aimed at innovation and expansion, reflecting increasing interest and involvement in aviation financing.

Top 19 Aircraft Leasing Investors in the US

1. Y Combinator

• Website: ycombinator.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 802
• LinkedIn: y-combinator

Y Combinator is a prominent startup accelerator and venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2005. It specializes in providing funding and mentorship to early-stage technology companies, having successfully launched over 4,000 startups. In the context of the aircraft industry, Y Combinator has made notable investments in companies such as Odys Aviation, which raised $12.4 million in seed funding to develop prototype aircraft, and Heart Aerospace, a Swedish hybrid-electric aeroplane maker that secured $107 million in Series B funding. These investments highlight Y Combinator's interest in innovative aviation technologies, positioning it as a potential contributor to the aircraft leasing sector.

2. Blackstone

• Website: blackstone.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn: blackstonegroup

Blackstone Inc. is a prominent investment management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative investments. Founded in 1985, Blackstone has built a reputation for its extensive portfolio and investment strategies across various sectors, including private equity, real estate, and credit solutions. Notably, Blackstone has been involved in significant transactions related to the aircraft leasing industry, such as its investment in Lobo Leasing, which raised $200 million in a private equity round in 2014. This investment highlights Blackstone's engagement in the aircraft leasing market. Additionally, their diverse investments, including a recent $1 billion funding round for Jet Support Services, further demonstrate their active role in sectors that support aviation and aircraft operations. Overall, Blackstone's strategic investments reflect its commitment to building strong businesses and delivering lasting value across multiple industries, including aircraft leasing.

3. Apollo Global Management, Inc.

• Website: apollo.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 46
• LinkedIn: apollo-global-management-inc

Apollo Global Management, Inc. is an asset management firm based in New York, specializing in alternative assets and retirement solutions. Founded in 1990, the firm manages a diverse portfolio across credit, private equity, and real assets, catering to institutional investors, corporations, and individual clients. In recent years, Apollo has made significant strides in the aviation sector, highlighted by its acquisition of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings for $5.2 billion in August 2022, which was approved by shareholders in December 2022. This acquisition positions Apollo as a key player in the air cargo industry. Furthermore, Apollo's acquisition of PK AirFinance in December 2019, an aviation lending business, showcases its strategic interest in aircraft financing, with a portfolio that includes $3.6 billion in financing receivables. Additionally, Apollo Infrastructure's acquisition of Modern Aviation in November 2023, a fixed-base operator with multiple locations, further emphasizes its commitment to the aviation sector. These transactions reflect Apollo's integrated approach to investing in the aviation industry, particularly in aircraft leasing and financing.

4. Goldman Sachs

• Website: goldmansachs.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 59
• LinkedIn: goldman-sachs

Goldman Sachs is a prominent investment bank and financial services firm based in New York, founded in 1998. It offers a wide range of services, including investment banking, asset management, and wealth management, catering to a diverse clientele that includes corporations, financial institutions, and individuals. In 2024, Goldman Sachs was involved in significant transactions within the aerospace sector, such as providing $15.81 billion in post-IPO debt to The Boeing Company and $350 million to Embraer. These transactions highlight Goldman Sachs' active role in financing key players in the aircraft manufacturing industry, which is closely linked to aircraft leasing. Additionally, their involvement with companies like SpiceJet Limited and Ramco further emphasizes their engagement in sectors that intersect with aircraft leasing, showcasing their capacity to influence and support the aviation market.

5. Kkr

• Website: kkr.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 74
• LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a global leader in asset management, providing tailored solutions to institutional investors and individual clients. In the aircraft leasing context, KKR has made notable investments, including a $1 billion commitment to Altavair AirFinance, which focuses on acquiring cargo aircraft for long-term leases. Additionally, KKR acquired an aviation loan portfolio from CIT Group for nearly $800 million, which included financing for approximately 60 commercial aircraft. These transactions highlight KKR's strategic involvement in the aviation sector, particularly in aircraft leasing and financing, showcasing their expertise and commitment to achieving strong financial returns in this industry.

6. Liquid 2 Ventures

• Website: liquid2.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 91
• LinkedIn: liquid-2-ventures

Liquid 2 Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in technology startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, as well as growth-stage companies. They provide capital, mentorship, and access to a vast network of industry insiders to help founders navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. Notably, Liquid 2 Ventures has invested in several companies relevant to the aircraft leasing industry, including Stralis Aircraft, which raised $2 million in a pre-seed round in April 2023, and Natilus, which raised $12.68 million in a seed round in May 2021. Other investments include Airhart Aeronautics, Regent, and Skyways, all of which are involved in aviation-related technologies. This focus on innovative aviation startups positions Liquid 2 Ventures as a relevant player in the aircraft leasing sector.

7. The Carlyle Group

• Website: carlyle.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 25
• LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a focus on providing tailored investment solutions, Carlyle serves a diverse range of institutional investors, including pension funds and sovereign wealth funds. Notably, Carlyle has made significant strides in the aviation sector through its subsidiary, Carlyle Aviation Partners, which was formed following the acquisition of Apollo Aviation in October 2018. This strategic move highlights Carlyle's commitment to the aircraft leasing industry. Additionally, their investment in the Nordam Group, an aerospace repair and manufacturing company, and the acquisition of StandardAero, further emphasize their engagement in the aviation space, particularly in areas that support aircraft leasing and maintenance services. Overall, Carlyle's extensive expertise and active investments in aviation-related companies position it as a relevant player in the aircraft leasing market.

8. Warburg Pincus LLC

• Website: warburgpincus.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1966
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 24
• LinkedIn: warburg-pincus

Warburg Pincus LLC is a leading global private equity firm specializing in growth investments, founded in 1966 and based in New York, New York. With over $83 billion in assets under management, the firm partners with management teams across various sectors, including healthcare, technology, and financial services. Notably, Warburg Pincus has made significant investments in the aerospace sector, including the acquisition of Wencor Group, a provider of aftermarket aerospace components, in 2014, and Triumph Group in 2025. Additionally, they have invested in Extant Aerospace, which focuses on providing support and services for aerospace systems. These transactions highlight Warburg Pincus's commitment to the aerospace industry, positioning them as a relevant player in the aircraft leasing investment landscape.

9. JetBlue Ventures

• Website: jetblueventures.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn: jetblue-ventures

JetBlue Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2016. It specializes in investing in early-stage startups that aim to improve the travel and hospitality industries. With a focus on sustainable travel and advanced technologies, JetBlue Ventures has made significant investments in companies that are innovating within the aviation sector. Notably, they have participated in funding rounds for Universal Hydrogen, which is developing hydrogen fueling technology for aircraft, and Joby Aviation, which is working on eVTOL aircraft. These investments align with their mission to enhance customer experiences in travel and support the transition to more sustainable aviation solutions.

10. VSE Corporation

• Website: vsecorp.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Miramar, Florida, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1959
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn: vsecorp

VSE Corporation is a corporate investor based in Miramar, Florida, founded in 1959. The company specializes in aftermarket distribution and repair services for the aviation and fleet sectors, providing a range of services including MRO, parts distribution, and supply chain management. In recent years, VSE has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the aviation market. Notably, in 2024, they acquired Kellstrom Aerospace Group, enhancing their capabilities in the commercial aerospace aftermarket. In 2023, they acquired Desser Aerospace for $124 million, further solidifying their position in aviation distribution and MRO markets. Additionally, their acquisition of Global Parts Group in 2021 for $38 million aimed to expand their product distribution and repair capabilities in the business and general aviation market. These transactions reflect VSE's commitment to supporting the aviation industry, which is integral to the aircraft leasing sector.

11. Platinum Equity

• Website: platinumequity.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 20
• LinkedIn: platinum-equity

Platinum Equity is a private equity firm founded in 1995, based in Beverly Hills, California. The firm specializes in mergers, acquisitions, and operations management, focusing on investing in established companies across various industries. With a portfolio of approximately 50 companies and managing over $48 billion in assets, Platinum Equity provides capital and operational expertise to enhance growth and profitability. Notably, they have made significant investments in the aviation sector, including the acquisition of Unical Aviation Inc., the largest independently owned provider of aviation surplus spare parts globally, and Worldwide Flight Services, which offers essential ground handling services for airlines. Their recent acquisition of Héroux-Devtek, a company involved in aerospace and defense, further solidifies their commitment to the aviation industry, showcasing their capability to enhance operational efficiencies and drive growth in this sector.

12. Stonepeak

• Website: stonepeak.com
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 16
• LinkedIn: stonepeak-partners

Stonepeak is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in infrastructure and real estate investments. Founded in 2011, the firm manages assets on behalf of large institutions, including pension funds and endowments, with a focus on creating value through strategic investments in critical infrastructure that supports daily life. Stonepeak has been active in the transportation sector, notably acquiring Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) in a $3.1 billion all-cash transaction, which allows ATSG to continue operating as a wholly-owned subsidiary. Additionally, their acquisition of Textainer Group Holdings for $7.4 billion highlights their involvement in leasing operations, particularly in the context of intermodal containers. These transactions demonstrate Stonepeak's capability and interest in the aircraft leasing industry, alongside their broader investment strategy.

13. United Airlines

• Website: united.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1926
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn: united-airlines

United Airlines, Inc. is a major airline based in Chicago, Illinois, providing air travel services across a vast domestic and international route network. Founded in 1926, the airline caters to both business and leisure travelers, offering scheduled and chartered flights. In recent years, United Airlines has made significant investments in the aviation sector, including a notable involvement in funding rounds for companies like Archer, which focuses on developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. In 2024 alone, United participated in multiple funding rounds for Archer, totaling over $1 billion, aimed at advancing aircraft technology and manufacturing capabilities. Additionally, United's investment in Heart Aerospace, a company developing hybrid-electric aircraft, further demonstrates its commitment to innovation in aviation. These strategic investments highlight United Airlines' active role in shaping the future of aircraft technology, which is closely related to the aircraft leasing industry.

14. Soma Capital

• Website: somacap.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 41
• LinkedIn: soma-capital

Soma Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups across diverse sectors, including technology and finance. With a strong portfolio that includes over 20 unicorns, Soma Capital is dedicated to supporting exceptional entrepreneurs and teams in building innovative solutions. Notably, Soma Capital has made significant investments in the aviation sector, including funding rounds for companies such as Odys Aviation, which raised $12.4 million in seed funding to develop prototype aircraft, and Natilus, which secured $12.68 million for its innovative aircraft solutions. Additionally, they have invested in Exosonic and AeroVect, further demonstrating their commitment to advancing the aviation industry. Through these investments, Soma Capital provides not only capital but also resources to help these startups scale and succeed in the competitive aviation market.

15. Pnc

• Website: pnc.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1852
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 13
• LinkedIn: pnc-bank

The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. is a prominent banking institution based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, founded in 1852. PNC offers a comprehensive range of financial services, including asset management, wealth management, and loan servicing, catering to individuals, small businesses, and institutional clients. In recent years, PNC has engaged in significant transactions within the aircraft leasing context, such as providing substantial debt financing to Embraer, a major player in the aircraft manufacturing industry, with transactions totaling $1 billion in 2022 and 2024. Additionally, PNC has been involved in financing Next Level Aviation and Killick Aerospace, further demonstrating their commitment to the aviation sector. Their acquisition of U.B. Vehicle Leasing Inc. also highlights their interest in leasing operations, which may encompass aircraft leasing as part of their broader investment strategy.

16. Citi

• Website: citigroup.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1812
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 107
• LinkedIn: citi

Citigroup Inc. is a financial services company based in New York, providing a wide range of banking and investment services to individuals and businesses. Founded in 1812, Citi operates in various sectors, including commercial banking, investment banking, and wealth management. In 2024, Citi was involved in 107 investments, showcasing its active role in the financial market. Notably, Citi participated in a significant transaction with The Boeing Company, where Boeing raised $15.81 billion in post-IPO debt on October 14, 2024. This transaction highlights Citi's involvement in the aviation sector, particularly in financing activities that can support aircraft leasing operations. Additionally, Citi has engaged in debt financing for other companies, indicating its broad investment strategy, which includes sectors relevant to aircraft leasing.

17. Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI)

• Website: jetsupport.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: jetsupportservicesincjssi

Jet Support Services, Inc. (JSSI) is a corporate investor based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 1989. JSSI specializes in aviation maintenance and offers a variety of services, including hourly cost maintenance programs, parts leasing, and advisory services. Their clientele consists of aircraft owners, operators, and MRO businesses that depend on JSSI for stabilizing maintenance costs and effectively managing aircraft operations. In recent years, JSSI has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its position in the aviation industry. Notably, in May 2023, JSSI acquired Shearwater Global Capital, a specialist aircraft financier, which enhances their growth and access to capital, particularly in the context of aircraft leasing. Other acquisitions, such as Conklin & de Decker, SierraTrax, Traxxall, and Tracware, focus on improving maintenance tracking and digital services, further solidifying JSSI's role in the aviation sector.

18. Ge

• Website: ge.com
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn: ge

General Electric Company (GE) is a technology and industrial software provider based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1990. The company specializes in solutions that enhance operational efficiency and decision-making across various sectors. GE has made several strategic acquisitions in the aviation market, including Greenwich Air Services, Inc. for $530 million in 1997, which aimed to enhance its service capabilities in aviation. In 2008, GE acquired Smiths Aerospace for $3 billion, further solidifying its presence in the aviation sector. Additionally, GE acquired Avio Aero in 2012 for $4.3 billion, expanding its capabilities in the aviation market. These transactions demonstrate GE's commitment to the aviation industry, including aspects related to aircraft leasing, as they enhance its overall service offerings in this sector.

19. Karman Ventures

• Website: karman.vc
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Austin, Texas, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 18
• LinkedIn: movingcapital

Karman Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Austin, Texas, founded in 2018. The firm focuses on providing essential tools, talent, and playbooks to startup founders, helping them build and scale successful businesses. Karman Ventures has been involved in several notable transactions in the aviation sector, including a $60 million Series A investment in Regent Craft, which aims to develop all-electric seagliders, and a $100 million Series B investment in Boom Supersonic, a company working on a Mach-2.2 commercial airliner. These investments highlight Karman Ventures' commitment to supporting innovative companies in the aviation industry, making them a relevant player in the aircraft leasing context.

Aircraft Leasing Insights: Key Investors in the US

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