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The aircraft leasing industry in Europe is a dynamic sector where companies acquire aircraft and lease Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m to airlines or businesses. This model provides flexibility for airlines to manage Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir fleets without heavy capital expenditure on purchasing aircraft. Companies range from large corporations to smaller specialized firms, offering various terms such as operating and finance leases. As demand for air travel grows and sustainability becomes a priority, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industry is adapting with a focus on fuel-efficient and greener aircraft options. Additionally, technological innovations are reshaping leasing operations, paving Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ way for increased automation and efficiency.

In 2024, a mix of investor types was active within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ European aircraft leasing market, including venture capital, private equity, and corporate entities. The investors are headquartered in major financial hubs, such as Paris, Frankfurt, and London, with varying sizes from small firms to vast corporations with over 10,000 employees. Established between 1870 and 2010, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se firms collectively recorded over 300 transactions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing sector. This stratum of investors, including Deutsche Bank and BBA Aviation, reflects Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ robust interest and commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation leasing landscape.

Top 12 Aircraft Leasing Investors in Europe

1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 198
• LinkedIn:

Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a public entity and financial institution based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2015. It supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a variety of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. Bpifrance aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation by providing coaching and partnerships to help businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft industry, such as its investment in Elixir Aircraft, a leader in low-carbon light aircraft, where it participated in a funding round totaling â‚�40 million. Additionally, Bpifrance was part of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Sabena technics, a company with significant revenue in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation sector, indicating its strategic interest in enhancing growth opportunities within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing context.

2. BBA Aviation plc

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1879
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn:

BBA Aviation plc, based in London, England, is a corporate investor specializing in private aviation services through its subsidiary Signature Aviation. Founded in 1879, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company has a long history in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation industry. Signature Aviation operates a network of private aviation terminals globally, providing maintenance, fuel services, and loyalty programs for aviation customers. Notable transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Landmark Aviation for approximately $2.065 billion, which expanded Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir global flight support network by adding 68 FBO locations. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired a majority stake in Starlink Aviation's FBO in Montréal, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidifying Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation services market. BBA Aviation also co-led a funding round for Victor, a private jet charter marketplace, which aims to create a digitally-driven ecosystem for general aviation operators. These activities highlight BBA Aviation's strategic focus on enhancing its aviation service offerings, making it a significant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing and aviation support sectors.

3. Deutsche Bank

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany
• Founded year: 1870
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 32
• LinkedIn:

Deutsche Bank AG is a prominent investment bank and financial services provider founded in 1870, headquartered in Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany. The bank offers a wide range of solutions, including investment banking, corporate banking, cash management, trade finance, and securities services. It serves corporate and institutional clients, helping Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m manage Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir financial assets and liquidity effectively through its digital platform, Autobahn. Notably, Deutsche Bank has been involved in several significant debt financing transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing sector, including a $500 million debt financing for Avolon Holdings in March 2014, $500 million for Wings Capital Partners in June 2018, and $85 million for Waypoint Leasing Services in March 2015. These transactions highlight Deutsche Bank's active role in supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing industry, making it a relevant investor in this space.

4. Groupe Crédit Agricole

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1894
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 18
• LinkedIn:

Groupe Crédit Agricole is a cooperative banking group based in Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1894. It provides a comprehensive range of financial services, including banking, insurance, and investment management, catering to individual consumers, businesses, and organizations. The group emphasizes mutuality and social responsibility in its operations. Notably, Crédit Agricole has been involved in several significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing sector, including a $500 million debt financing for Avolon Holdings in 2014, a $500 million debt financing for Wings Capital Partners in 2018, and participation in a secured portfolio financing facility for CDB Aviation, which raised $700 million in 2018. These transactions highlight Crédit Agricole's active role in supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing industry through substantial financial commitments.

5. Cvc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Luxembourg
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 16
• LinkedIn:

CVC Capital Partners is a leading investment firm founded in 2005, specializing in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure. With approximately â‚�193 billion in assets under management for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors, CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Notably, CVC has been involved in key transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing sector, such as its equity commitment of $750 million to Avolon Holdings, which raised a total of $1.4 billion in initial capital. This investment highlights CVC's active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing market. FurÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rmore, CVC's acquisition of Ontic Engineering and Manufacturing for $1.365 billion underscores its commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry, as Ontic specializes in aerospace parts manufacturing. CVC's recent acquisition of CTC Moyson Airport Equipment also indicates its interest in companies that support Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation sector, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidifying its position as a relevant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing and aerospace industries.

6. Avia Solutions Group

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn:

Avia Solutions Group is a prominent aviation services provider based in Dublin, Ireland, founded in 2010. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance), aircraft leasing, aviation consulting, and training. With a workforce exceeding 10,000 professionals, Avia Solutions Group serves airlines and aviation businesses globally, emphasizing efficiency and customer satisfaction. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company has made significant acquisitions to enhance its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing market. In June 2023, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired AirExplore, a Slovakian ACMI/charter carrier, which is expected to bolster Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir market presence. Additionally, in July 2023, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired Synergy Aviation, a UK-based private aircraft charter and management company, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r expanding Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir operations in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing sector. These strategic moves reflect Avia Solutions Group's commitment to growing its aircraft leasing capabilities and its overall influence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation industry.

7. European Innovation Council (EIC)

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 57
• LinkedIn:

The European Innovation Council (EIC) is a public entity based in Brussels, Belgium, established to support innovation and entrepreneurship across Europe. Founded in 1958, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC offers various funding programs, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC Accelerator and EIC Pathfinder, aimed at helping startups and SMEs develop and scale Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir technologies. In 2024 alone, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC has made 57 investments, showcasing its commitment to fostering innovation. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC has participated in significant funding rounds for companies in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, such as Heart Aerospace, which raised $107 million in Series B funding to develop a hybrid-electric aircraft, and Maeve Aerospace, which received â‚�2.5 million for its full-electric regional airliner project. These transactions highlight Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ EIC's role in supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ development of cutting-edge aviation technologies, which could eventually intersect with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing market as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se innovations come to fruition.

8. Ldc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 15
• LinkedIn:

Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited, commonly known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. The firm aims to help management teams achieve Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir growth ambitions through investment and advisory services, fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. Notably, LDC has made several acquisitions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation sector, including PDG Helicopters in 2015, which operates in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ helicopter leasing and services market, and Airline Services Interiors in 2012, which provides aircraft interior services. These transactions highlight LDC's involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation industry, indicating its potential relevance to aircraft leasing.

9. STAR Capital Partnership LLP

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn:

STAR Capital Partnership LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in strategic asset-based investments across Western Europe, managing capital from institutional investors. STAR Capital focuses on sectors such as transport, utilities, and healthcare, partnering with management teams to enhance shareholder value and ensure long-term growth. Notably, STAR Capital has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation sector, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of ASL Aviation Holdings in 2019 for over â‚�200 million, which expanded ASL's services and market reach. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of SR Technics in 2002 for approximately $663 million highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation industry, as SR Technics is a key player in aircraft maintenance and repair. These transactions underscore STAR Capital's strategic interest in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aircraft leasing and aviation market, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a relevant investor in this space.

10. Tikehau Capital

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 501-1000
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn:

Tikehau Capital is an investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in alternative asset management. Founded in 2004, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm offers a diverse range of services including private debt, private equity, real assets, and capital markets strategies. Tikehau Capital serves a variety of clients, including institutional and private investors, as well as SMEs seeking tailored financing solutions to support growth and sustainability initiatives. Notably, Tikehau has been involved in several transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace sector, such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Sabena Technics, a company specializing in aeronautical maintenance, and Groupe ROSSI AERO, which is also linked to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace industry. These transactions highlight Tikehau's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aerospace field, although Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y do not specifically focus on aircraft leasing.

11. Crédit Mutuel Equity

• Website: creditmutuel-equity.eu
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm focuses on providing capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, integrating economic and ESG considerations into Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment strategies. In recent years, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have been involved in several transactions, including a notable investment in Axialease, which raised $5,181,747 in a private equity round in January 2020, indicating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ leasing sector. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y invested in Occarent, a company specializing in leasing equipment to professional clients, which completed its first funding round with an undisclosed amount from Crédit Mutuel Equity in June 2021. These transactions suggest that while Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir primary focus may not be solely on aircraft leasing, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y do have relevant interests in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ leasing industry.

12. Crédit Agricole CIB

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• Number of deals in 2024: 17
• LinkedIn:

Crédit Agricole CIB is an investment bank based in Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2004. It offers a comprehensive range of financial services, including structured finance, investment banking, and capital markets solutions, catering to corporate clients and financial institutions. With a global presence, Crédit Agricole CIB assists clients in navigating complex financial landscapes. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have been involved in significant debt financing transactions, including a $100 million debt financing for Aircastle, a prominent aircraft leasing company, which highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ aviation sector. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir participation in various debt financing deals, such as those with Amergin Asset Management and Global Ship Lease, showcases Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broad investment strategy and capability to support diverse industries, including aircraft leasing.

Aircraft Leasing Insights: Key Investors in Europe

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1-10	2015	198
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	5001-10000	1879	1
	Frankfurt, Hesse, Germany	10001+	1870	32
	Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France	10001+	1894	18
	Luxembourg	1001-5000	2005	16
	Dublin, Dublin, Ireland	10001+	2010	1
	Brussels, Brussels, Belgium	201-500	1958	57
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1981	15
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	11-50	1999	4
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	501-1000	2004	6
Crédit Mutuel Equity	Paris, Île-De-France, France	51-200	1988	2
	Montrouge, ÃŽle-De-France, France	5001-10000	2004	17

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