Chicago, January 22, 2026 — Aircraft Engine Lease Finance Inc. (AELF), a leading US-based commercial aircraft lessor, completed an active year in the capital markets space in 2025, having raised $355 million in committed capital or term financings from a group of lenders that includes Investec, Absa Group, Merchants Bank, and Natixis. AELF will use the financing to pursue strategic growth opportunities and expand its fleet.

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“We are in an exciting period of growth and are well positioned from a capital perspective to further our strategic goals throughout 2026,” said Joe Cirillo, President and Chief Commercial Officer of AELF. “We value our financing partners that understand and support our vision as we continue to target mid-life assets with strong value-creation potential. Our team is energized to continue the disciplined investment of these resources for fleet expansion.”

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AELF has demonstrated consistent growth in recent years through its differentiated business model, which combines strong in-house technical expertise with extensive airline connectivity worldwide. AELF’s unique capabilities have enabled the company to identify and execute value-creation opportunities in an increasingly competitive market.

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The company’s hands-on approach to managing its assets has resonated with institutional partners. AELF’s proven ability to navigate difficult situations and actively manage assets through their full lifecycle has established AELF as a trusted and valued partner to a number of premier financial institutions.

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Complementing several recently announced transactions, AELF secured a $72 million loan from its existing lender Absa in early December, a testament to the strength of the company’s longstanding banking relationships and consistent execution.

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“This financing reflects the growing depth and sophistication of capital solutions available to well-positioned asset owners,” said John Zama, Principal: Structured Asset Finance at Absa CIB. “AELF has demonstrated a clear strategy, disciplined execution and strong asset expertise, and we are pleased to support its continued fleet expansion. Transactions like this underscore how capital, when structured appropriately, can enable sustainable growth even in a more selective global financing environment.”

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