Dubai Aerospace Enterprise Acquires Nordic Aviation Capital: A Strategic Expansion in Aircraft Leasing
Dubai, U.A.E., 07 May 2025 – In a significant move within the global aviation landscape, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise Ltd (DAE) has successfully finalized the acquisition of 100% of the outstanding share capital of Nordic Aviation Capital Designated Activity Company and its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively referred to as “NAC”). The transaction, valued at approximately US billion, was initially announced in January 2025 and marks a substantial enhancement of DAE’s presence in the aircraft leasing sector.
With this acquisition, DAE augments its fleet to approximately 750 owned, managed, and committed aircraft, solidifying its status as the third-largest aircraft lessor globally by the number of leased aircraft. The current composition of DAE’s fleet includes around 650 aircraft that are in operation across 161 airlines distributed over 74 countries. In addition to enhancing its existing fleet, DAE has strategic commitments to acquire approximately 100 new aircraft from major manufacturers such as Boeing, Airbus, ATR, and additional trading partners.
Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, expressed enthusiasm regarding this acquisition, stating, “Our expanded fleet positions us competitively within the global market for aircraft leasing. This transaction not only reinforces our standing as a leader in the industry but also bolsters our capability to deliver more cost-efficient solutions for our clients. Additionally, we see this as an opportunity to deepen existing relationships with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) across a more diverse array of aircraft types.”
Through this strategic acquisition, DAE welcomes NAC’s previous airline clients into its extensive client portfolio, emphasizing a commitment to building long-lasting, trusted relationships. “We are grateful to the dedicated team at NAC who have helped shaped the company over its 35 years of existence. Special thanks go to NAC’s Chairman Yadin Rosov and Chief Executive Officer Norm Liu for their professionalism and unwavering commitment to success during this acquisition process,” Tarapore added.
The implications of this acquisition extend beyond mere numbers; they signal a transformative moment in the aviation leasing industry, which has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years due to global economic fluctuations and shifts in travel patterns. DAE’s proactive approach to growth amidst such uncertainties highlights the importance of adaptability and strategic foresight in the evolving landscape of aviation finance.
This acquisition further reinforces DAE’s operational resilience. The company’s diversified operations, which include DAE Capital and DAE Engineering, enhance its service offerings and operational capabilities. DAE Capital, recognized as an award-winning aircraft lessor, operates a fleet valued at approximately US billion, which includes a diverse range of aircraft types, catering to an expansive clientele. Meanwhile, DAE Engineering provides comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services out of its advanced facilities in Amman, Jordan, offering regional support to a growing customer base across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
DAE’s commitment to innovation and operational excellence is evident in its partnerships with global regulators, obtaining approvals from more than 25 aviation authorities worldwide, and maintaining an ability to work on 15 different aircraft types. This emphasis on regulatory compliance and quality service positions DAE as a future-focused entity prepared to capitalize on the emerging opportunities within the aviation sector following the post-pandemic recovery phase.
In light of these developments, industry observers remain optimistic regarding the future trajectory of DAE and the global aircraft leasing market. Analysts suggest that this acquisition positions DAE favorably to address the increasing demand for air travel as the world shifts toward an economic recovery. With an eye on sustainable growth and operational efficiency, DAE is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of the aviation industry.
As the aviation landscape continues to evolve, DAE’s strategic decisions are indicative of a broader trend within the sector—one that prioritizes consolidation and collaboration as airlines and lessors work together to navigate the uncertainties presented by economic shifts and the ongoing recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
For more details on DAE’s operations and strategic initiatives, please visit www.dubaiaerospace.com.
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