Josh Chapman·Saturday, March 21, 2026·6 min readAviation

Konvoy | Airplanes from Ireland

The aircraft leasing market presents lucrative investment opportunities due to a significant supply chain crisis in the aviation industry.

The newsletter highlights the current crisis in the aviation industry, particularly focusing on the aircraft leasing sector, which is experiencing unprecedented demand due to a significant backlog of aircraft. AerCap Holdings stands out as a leading player, showcasing impressive financial performance compared to traditional airlines. With over 50% of aircraft now leased, and a strong growth trajectory in travel demand, this sector presents a compelling opportunity for venture capital investment. Investors should consider the implications of supply chain disruptions and the strategic positioning of companies like AerCap in this evolving landscape.

Key Takeaways

  • Aircraft leasing is now over 50% of the market, driven by a backlog of 17,000 aircraft.
  • AerCap Holdings, a major player in aircraft leasing, reported a net income of $3.8B in 2025, significantly outperforming traditional airlines.
  • The demand for air travel is growing at a rate of 4:1 compared to population growth, exacerbating supply issues.
  • Ireland dominates the aircraft leasing market, housing 14 of the top 15 lessors globally.
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