09 Apr 2026
#2 April 2026: North American Aviation Newsletter
Azorra Acquires Nine GE CF34-10E Engines from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE)
Azorra has acquired nine GE CF34-10E engines from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE), strengthening its engine leasing portfolio. The engines, which power Embraer E190 and E195 aircraft, will be leased to airline customers globally, supporting fleet operations amid ongoing maintenance and supply chain challenges.
Cargojet Exits 21 Air Investment to Strengthen Focus on Key Operations
Cargojet has agreed to divest its minority stake in Miami-based cargo operator 21 Air, originally acquired in 2021. The move allows the company to streamline its strategic focus towards its core domestic network, ACMI, and charter operations while reallocating capital to areas aligned with its strengths.
Willis Lease Finance Corporation Closes Two Additional JOLCO Deals
Willis Lease Finance Corporation has closed two JOLCO financing transactions worth approximately $50 million, supporting LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines. The deals bring the company’s total JOLCO financing to nearly $150 million and highlight its strategy to diversify funding sources while offering flexible financing solutions to airline customers.
Acumen’s Take
On Azorra’s Engine Acquisition
The acquisition reflects continued demand for mid-life engine assets that provide immediate operational support. In a constrained MRO environment, access to available engines and green time remains critical for maintaining fleet utilisation.
On Cargojet’s Strategic Divestment
Cargojet’s exit from 21 Air signals a sharper focus on core operations and capital efficiency. Streamlining investments allows operators to strengthen profitability while concentrating on areas of established competitive advantage.
On Willis Lease’s JOLCO Expansion
The expansion of JOLCO financing highlights the growing importance of alternative funding structures in aviation. Diversified capital solutions enable lessors to optimise balance sheets while continuing to support airline fleet and engine requirements.
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