Aircraft Leasing Market expected to rise from USD 213.35 billion in 2025 to USD 551.47 billion by 2034, at a CAGR of 11.1% during the forecast period.

Global Aircraft Leasing market size is expected to reach $292.06 billion by 2029 at 8.7%, surging air travel fuels aircraft leasing market growth

This statistic illustrates the size of the global aircraft leasing market in 2021 and gives a projection from 2022 through 2029. The global aircraft leasing market is projected to be worth ****** billion U.S. dollars in 2029.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global aircraft leasing market size will be USD 173524.5 million in 2025. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.60% from 2025 to 2033.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 69409.80 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8% from 2025 to 2033.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 52057.35 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 39910.64 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.6% from 2025 to 2033.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 8676.23 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.0% from 2025 to 2033.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 3470.49 million in 2025 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.3% from 2025 to 2033.
The dry leasing segment holds the major share of the aircraft leasing market.

Market Dynamics of Aircraft Leasing Market

Key Drivers for Aircraft Leasing Market

Technological Advancements Leading to New Leasing Options Is Driving Market Growth: Technological advancements are playing a crucial role in driving growth in the aircraft leasing market by introducing new and innovative leasing options. The development of digital platforms and advanced software solutions has simplified and streamlined the leasing process, making it more efficient for both lessors and lessees. These technologies enhance transparency, reduce transaction times, and improve data management, which helps airlines make informed decisions. Additionally, advancements in aircraft maintenance tracking and management are allowing leasing companies to monitor fleet conditions better, ensuring higher aircraft reliability and reducing operational risks. The integration of artificial intelligence and data analytics is also improving forecasting, helping lessors optimize fleet utilization and better meet the dynamic demands of the aviation industry. For instance, CDB Aviation began 2025 with strong momentum, building on the 70 aircraft transactions completed in the previous year. The lessor highlighted its robust commercial activity and the cost management and streamlining initiatives undertaken in 2024. The execution of 70 aircraft transactions in the prior year emphasized the continued momentum in expanding its international platform.

(Source:https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250108490984/en/CDB-Aviation-Starts-2025-With-Strong-Momentum-Building-on-Prior-Year%E2%80%99s-70-Aircraft-Transactions)

Preference for Operational Flexibility in Fleet Management Propels Market Growth: The preference for operational flexibility in fleet management is one of the key factors propelling the growth of the aircraft leasing market. Airlines increasingly choose leasing as it allows them to adapt quickly to changing market conditions without committing to the high upfront costs of purchasing aircraft. Flexible leasing options enable airlines to scale their fleets up or down based on demand fluctuations, thereby optimizing operational efficiency. Moreover, leasing offers airlines the ability to access a wide range of aircraft models and configurations without long-term financial commitment, providing them with a competitive advantage. This operational flexibility, combined with cost-efficiency, is significantly driving the expansion of the global aircraft leasing market.

Restraint Factor for the Aircraft Leasing Market

Currency Exchange Risks for Cross-Border Leasing Transactions Restricts Market Growth: Currency exchange risks for cross-border leasing transactions pose a significant challenge in the aircraft leasing market, restricting growth opportunities for lessors and lessees. When leasing aircraft across borders, fluctuations in currency exchange rates can lead to unpredictable costs and revenues, making it harder to forecast financial outcomes. Airlines and leasing companies face the risk of higher operational expenses or lower profitability if the currency exchange moves unfavorably. This uncertainty can discourage international leasing deals and impact the willingness of inve...

The Commercial Aircraft Leasing Market Report is Segmented by Leasing Type (Wet Lease and Dry Lease), Aircraft Type (Narrowbody, Widebody, Regional Jets, and Freighter/P2F Converted Aircraft), End User (Full-Service Carriers, Low-Cost Carriers, and More), Lease Duration (Short-Term, Medium-Term, and Long-Term), and Geography (North America, Europe, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The Commercial Aircraft Leasing industry weathered the storm of the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite revenue dropping in 2020, the industry has grown steadily through the end of 2024. The initial stages of the pandemic caused a dip in activity as airlines grounded fleets and renegotiated leases. However, as travel restrictions eased and passenger demand rebounded, airlines turned to leasing as a capital-efficient way to expand and modernize their fleets, particularly with fuel-efficient models. This trend was further fueled by the growth of low-cost carriers relying heavily on leased aircraft. Overall, industry revenue will climb at a CAGR of 1.8% through the end of 2024 to reach $12.1 billion, including an expected 2.5% boost in 2024 alone. Profit has also climbed as lessors can charge premiums because of their services. The industry continues to undergo consolidation as many smaller lessors get acquired. Even so, the merger of the industry's two largest aircraft lessors, GECAS and AerCap Holdings NV, surprised many. While most airlines were down amid the pandemic, e-commerce sales and home delivery orders of durable goods increased, leading companies to expand their cargo operations and convert passenger planes into freighters to aid logistics providers. This slowed down the following year, but an uptick in air travel more than made up for it. Industry revenue will climb through the end of 2029, growing at a CAGR of 2.7% to $13.9 billion in 2029. As air travel remains elevated, lessors will have no problem finding customers. Even as profit and revenue remain high, more companies will be in line to get acquired as larger lessors target niche markets to expand their dominance in the industry. Lessors may exhibit a potential threat from large e-commerce giants like Amazon, expanding their fleets and slowly rendering logistics providers less useful. Freighters are only a tiny part of the market and will not heavily impact revenue.

Aircraft Leasing Market Outlook 2032

The global aircraft leasing market size was USD 182.69 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 399.08 Billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 9.07% during 2024–2032. The market growth is attributed to rapid expansion, maintenance, and resale.



The escalating demand for air travel is one dominant factor sharply driving the aircraft leasing market's exponential growth. The aviation industry's landscape is dynamically changing, and airlines are employing leasing strategies to restructure their fleets. An increasing number of airline companies are shifting away from owning aircraft, causing a surge in the demand for leased aircraft.

A rising trend is toward operating leases, which provide airlines with a cost-effective and flexible alternative to outright purchase, without straining their financial resources or tying up their capital. Operating leases support optimum fleet management, allowing airlines to adapt quickly to ever-changing market conditions, passenger demand, and technological advancements.



Features such as priority delivery and guaranteed buybacks are gradually becoming an integral part of lease agreements. The negotiation of these terms underscores the growing importance of strategic agreements between leasing companies and commercial airlines. The increasing sophistication of these agreements results in an expansion of the aircraft leasing market.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the Aircraft Leasing Market

Artificial Intelligence has a significant impact on the aircraft leasing market. AI fosters enhanced forecasting in terms of pricing and demand. It analyzes historical data, trends, and multiple factors affecting aircraft leasing to deliver well-informed predictions, thus supporting strategic decision-making. Furthermore, AI facilitates automated documentation and real-time processes, significantly reducing paperwork, decreasing the risk of human errors, and expediting transactions.



AI-enabled chatbots, integrated into the

According to Cognitive Market Research, The Global Commercial Aircraft Leasing market is USD 169452.5 million in 2023 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.00% from 2023 to 2030.

The demand for commercial aircraft leasing is rising due to technological advancements and product innovation.
Demand for narrow-body aircraft remains higher in the commercial aircraft leasing market.
The dry leasing category held the highest commercial aircraft leasing market revenue share in 2023.
North American commercial aircraft leasing will continue to lead, whereas the European commercial aircraft leasing market will experience the most substantial growth until 2030.

Fleet Modernization with NextGen Aircraft to Provide Viable Market Output

The commercial aircraft leasing market is experiencing growth driven by fleet modernization with NextGen aircraft. Airlines increasingly prefer leasing to swiftly adopt technologically advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft, reducing ownership risks. NextGen aircraft, equipped with advanced avionics and fuel-efficient engines, offer improved operational efficiency and environmental sustainability. Leasing enables airlines to maintain a modern and competitive fleet, adapt to evolving market demands, and manage capital expenditure effectively in the dynamic aviation industry.

For instance, the International Air Transport Association has declared that the production of sustainable aviation fuel will reach approximately 300 million liters in 2022, compared to 100 million liters in 2021.

(Source: www.iata.org/en/pressroom/2022-releases/2022-12-07-01/)

Technological Advancements and Product Innovation to Propel Market Growth

The commercial aircraft leasing market experiences growth fueled by technological advancements and product innovation. Continuous aircraft design, fuel efficiency, and avionics improvements contribute to a modern and competitive leasing fleet. Innovations in leasing models, such as power-by-the-hour arrangements, enhance flexibility for operators. Additionally, advancements in data analytics and maintenance technologies improve the efficiency and reliability of leased aircraft. Overall, technological progress and innovation play a major part in shaping the vibrant landscape of the commercial aircraft leasing market.

For instance, in April 2022, BOC Aviation Limited declared that it coordinated with Airbus SAS to purchase 80 latest Airbus A320NEO family aircraft. All aircraft are planned for delivery between 2027 and 2029.

(Source: www.bocaviation.com/en/press-releases/2022/4/boc-aviation-orders-80-new-airbus-a320neo-family-aircraft)

Market Dynamics Of the Commercial Aircraft Leasing

Scarcity of Modern Airport Infrastructure for Aircraft Storage to Restrict Market Growth

The absence of modern airport infrastructure is a significant problem for aircraft lessors, as recently leased aircraft must be found and stored in the right place. The availability of efficient airports is one primary need for the investor or lesser glancing forward to supporting the aircraft leasing industry. Airport infrastructure and new aircraft requirements call for airfield improvements and expansion. Moreover, with a growing leased aircraft fleet, these aircraft require proper parking and storage space, which can only be provided by the airport authorities and respective airport operators, but due to a lack of appropriate infrastructures in growing economies, aircraft leasing cannot be developed in various regions of the globe.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Commercial Aircraft Leasing Market

The commercial aircraft leasing market has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel restrictions, decreased demand for air travel, and financial uncertainties led to reduced aircraft leasing activity. Airlines struggled with liquidity issues, impacting their ability to enter new leasing agreements. Additionally, leasing companies faced challenges in remarketing and repossessing aircraft. Despite these setbacks, the market is expected to recover gradually as the aviation industry rebounds and demand for leased aircraft resumes with the global economic recovery. Introduction of the Commercial Aircraft Leasing Market

Commercial aircraft leasing involves renting aircraft to airlines for a predetermined period, providing flexibility without the financial commitment of ownership, and encompass...

The aircraft leasing market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing airline demand for operational flexibility and capital efficiency. The market, estimated at $100 billion in 2025, is projected to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $160 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several factors, including the rising popularity of leasing among low-cost carriers and the increasing age of existing aircraft fleets, necessitating replacements. Furthermore, the ongoing expansion of air travel, especially in emerging economies, creates a substantial demand for aircraft, boosting the leasing sector. Major industry players like AerCap, Air Lease Corporation, and BOC Aviation are consolidating their positions through fleet expansion and strategic acquisitions, further driving market consolidation and influencing pricing dynamics. However, the market faces certain headwinds. Economic downturns and geopolitical uncertainties can significantly impact airline profitability and, consequently, their demand for leased aircraft. Furthermore, fluctuating fuel prices and evolving environmental regulations, including stricter emission standards, pose challenges to both airlines and leasing companies. The competitive landscape remains dynamic, with established players facing pressure from new entrants and the constant need for innovation in lease financing structures to maintain a competitive edge. Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook for the aircraft leasing market remains positive, supported by the sustained growth in global air travel and the inherent advantages of aircraft leasing for airlines. Regional variations exist, with North America and Europe currently holding the largest market shares, though Asia-Pacific is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period.

Aircraft Leasing Market will exceed USD 592.0 Billion by 2035 is required to continue growing at a CAGR of 11.5% during the forecast period

Commercial Aircraft Leasing Market Outlook

The commercial aircraft leasing market has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability, with a market size valued at approximately USD 62.5 billion in 2023. It is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4% during the forecast period, reaching an estimated USD 109.9 billion by 2032. This growth is driven by factors such as the increasing demand for air travel, the financial flexibility offered by leasing over purchasing, and the rapid expansion of low-cost carriers globally. The market's dynamic nature is also influenced by technological advancements in aircraft, enhancing fuel efficiency and overall performance, thereby increasing their attractiveness to leasing companies and airlines alike.

One of the key growth drivers in the commercial aircraft leasing market is the burgeoning global demand for air travel. As economies worldwide continue to grow and urbanize, there is a corresponding increase in disposable income, leading to more people being able to afford air travel. This trend is particularly noticeable in emerging markets, where a growing middle class is opting for air travel as their preferred mode of transportation. Consequently, airlines are expanding their fleets to meet this rising demand without incurring the significant upfront costs associated with purchasing new aircraft. Leasing provides an attractive alternative, allowing airlines to quickly scale their operations in response to market demand while maintaining financial flexibility and preserving cash flow for other strategic investments.

The financial benefits of aircraft leasing are another critical factor contributing to the market's growth. Leasing offers airlines the opportunity to manage their fleets more dynamically, adapting quickly to changes in passenger demand and economic conditions. By leasing aircraft, airlines can avoid the substantial capital expenditure required for outright purchases, thereby maintaining greater liquidity and operational flexibility. Moreover, leasing arrangements often include comprehensive maintenance and support services, reducing the operational burden on airlines and allowing them to focus on their core business operations. This financial agility is particularly advantageous in the current economic climate, where airlines face fluctuating fuel prices, regulatory changes, and evolving consumer preferences.

Technological advancements in aircraft design and engineering also play a significant role in the expansion of the leasing market. Modern aircraft are becoming increasingly fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly, aligning with the aviation industry's goals of reducing carbon emissions and operating costs. These advancements make newer aircraft models highly attractive to airlines looking to optimize their fleet operations and improve profitability. Leasing companies, in turn, are investing in these advanced aircraft to meet the evolving demands of their clients, further driving market growth. Furthermore, with the rapid pace of technological innovation, airlines prefer leasing to ensure they have access to the latest models without the long-term commitment of ownership, which could lead to obsolescence as newer technologies emerge.

Regionally, the commercial aircraft leasing market is experiencing varying trends and dynamics. North America, with its mature aviation sector, continues to hold a significant share of the leasing market, driven by the presence of major airlines and leasing companies. However, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a key growth area, with a projected CAGR of 7.8%. This growth is propelled by the region's expanding middle class, burgeoning tourism industry, and significant investments in airport infrastructure. Europe also remains a pivotal market, with its strong network of regional carriers and a growing emphasis on sustainable aviation practices. The Middle East and Africa, while currently smaller markets, are seeing increasing interest from leasing firms due to the rapid expansion of airlines in those regions and the strategic geographic advantage for connecting long-haul flights.

Leasing Type Analysis

The commercial aircraft leasing market is segmented into dry leasing and wet leasing, each serving distinct purposes and offering unique advantages to airlines. Dry leasing, which involves the rental of an aircraft without crew, maintenance, or insurance, is the more popular and widely used form. Airlines opting for dry leasing benefit from greater operational control and the flexibility to utilize their crew and maintenance facilities. This type of leasing is particularl

The Aircraft Leasing Market size was valued at USD 167.5 USD Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 307.58 USD Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.07 % during the forecast period. The aviation industry has a significant and active part called aircraft leasing. Basically, aircraft leasing means that airlines and other carriers lease an aircraft from a leasing company instead of buying it outright. This strategy offers several advantages, such as greater operational flexibility, lower initial capital costs and the ability to adapt to changing market demands. The aircraft leasing market has grown significantly since its inception and has become an integral part of the aviation industry. The need for airlines to manage their fleet efficiently, the high cost of purchasing and maintaining aircraft, and the increasing demand for air travel worldwide are some of the factors influencing the expansion of the industry. Aircraft leasing is unique because it comprises a wide range of players, from small regional lessors to large multinationals. These lessors offer a variety of leasing options, including operating leases and capital leases, to meet the diverse needs of their customers. Also, the market constantly adapts to economic changes and business development, which ensures its flexibility and importance in dynamic aviation. The aircraft leasing market is expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping the global aviation industry, providing airlines and airlines with flexibility and financial opportunities to thrive in a competitive and ever-changing business environment. Recent developments include: Acquisitions and mergers: The aircraft leasing industry has seen a number of acquisitions and mergers in recent years, as lessors look to consolidate their market share.

Expansion into new markets: Lessors are expanding into new markets, such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America, to tap into the growing demand for air travel.

Development of new products and services: Lessors are developing new products and services, such as flexible lease terms and digital platforms, to meet the changing needs of airlines.. Key drivers for this market are: Rising Demand for Satellite Communication Equipment Due to Growing Space Exploration Programs Will Aid Market Growth. Potential restraints include: Lack of Uniform Air Traffic Management, Appropriate Infrastructure, and Skilled Operators to Limit Market Growth.

Uncover Market Research Intellect's latest Commercial Aircraft Leasing Market Report, valued at USD 45 billion in 2024, expected to rise to USD 75 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 7.2% from 2026 to 2033.

This statistic illustrates the main founding sources in the aircraft leasing market from 2010 to 2020. In 2020, cash was one of the main funding sources in the aircraft leasing market, with a share of 36 percent.

North America Commercial Aircraft Leasing held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 67781.00 million in 2023 and will extend at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% from 2023 to 2030.

The global commercial aircraft leasing market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for air travel, particularly in emerging economies. Airlines are increasingly opting for leasing as a flexible and cost-effective alternative to purchasing aircraft outright, allowing them to adapt to fluctuating market conditions and manage their capital expenditure efficiently. The market is segmented by aircraft type (long-haul, medium-distance, regional/short-haul), leasing type (dry and wet), and geographic region. While North America and Europe currently hold significant market share, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to witness the fastest growth due to rapid economic expansion and a surge in air passenger numbers within the next decade. This growth is further fueled by the expansion of low-cost carriers and the increasing adoption of next-generation, fuel-efficient aircraft. However, geopolitical uncertainties, fluctuating fuel prices, and potential economic downturns pose challenges to the market's sustained growth. Competition among major leasing companies is intense, driving innovation and efficiency improvements within the industry. The integration of advanced technologies, including data analytics and predictive maintenance, is reshaping operations and improving asset management. The key players in the commercial aircraft leasing market, including AerCap, GECAS, and BOC Aviation, are constantly striving to expand their portfolios and improve their services to maintain their competitive edge. Strategic partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, and the development of new financing options are shaping the market landscape. The market's future is anticipated to remain positive, with a considerable rise in demand expected, especially for fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly aircraft. This will influence the types of aircraft being leased and the overall market dynamics, while regulatory changes regarding emissions and sustainability will also play a crucial role in influencing market decisions in the upcoming years. Continuous technological advancements in aircraft design and manufacturing will also contribute to increased leasing activity. Market forecasts suggest a sustained compound annual growth rate (CAGR) that drives considerable market expansion throughout the forecast period.

The forecast for the global Aircraft Leasing market predicts substantial growth, with market size projected to soar to USD 531.19 Billion by 2033, a significant increase from the USD 236.64 Billion recorded in 2024. This expansion reflects an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.40% anticipated between 2025 and 2033.

The Global Aircraft Leasing market size to cross USD 531.19 Billio

The Aircraft Leasing Market will grow at a CAGR of 11.1% during the forecast period, with an estimated size and share crossing USD 551.47 billion by 2034.

The Aircraft Leasing Market encompasses a diverse portfolio of leasing arrangements, catering to the varying needs of airlines and lessors. These leasing options primarily comprise three major categories: Wet Leasing: Provides a comprehensive leasing package that includes the aircraft, flight crew, maintenance, and insurance, offering airlines operational flexibility and reduced upfront costs. Dry Leasing: Involves leasing only the aircraft itself, with the lessee responsible for operating expenses such as crew, maintenance, and insurance. This arrangement offers greater control and customization options for airlines. Operating Leases: Grant airlines the right to use an aircraft for a predetermined period, typically ranging from 5 to 12 years. Under operating leases, the aircraft remains the property of the lessor, providing airlines with lower upfront costs and greater flexibility in managing their fleet. Recent developments include: In January 2020, Kennedy Lewis Investment Management and Arena Aviation Capital, an aircraft investment management firm have formed a partnership that pertains launch of a USD 1.5 billion worth aircraft leasing platform. The platform called KLA Aviation Finance has been formed with the aim to procure advanced technology commercial aircraft assets that are leased to global airlines, with the primary focus on new and young narrow-body aircraft., In November 2020, Sunrise Airways (Haiti) is about to lease the 9H-VDO from Galistair (Malta). Sunrise Airways will be using the A320 for flights to Santiago de Cuba, Holguin, Camagüey and Havana Int'l.. Key drivers for this market are: Rising demand for air travel. Growing budget airline industry.. Potential restraints include: Economic fluctuations and geopolitical risks. Competition from aircraft manufacturers.. Notable trends are: Digitalization and technology adoption. Sustainability and environmental concerns..