12 Feb 2026
#2 February 2026: Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter
Aergo Capital Announces Planned CEO Leadership Transition
Aergo Capital announced that Chief Executive Officer Fred Browne will step down at the end of January as part of a structured leadership transition. Eugene O’Reilly, currently Chief Operating Officer, has been appointed Acting CEO to ensure continuity as the firm builds on its established platform.
Greg Belonogoff, Principal, Aviation Leasing at AB CarVal, acknowledged Browne’s leadership since AB CarVal’s acquisition of Aergo in 2014 and stated that the transition reflects a continued commitment to long-term stability and growth for clients and investors.
DAE Signs Long-Term Lease for Two Boeing 737-8 Aircraft with Somon Air
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) announced it has reached agreement with Somon Air for the long-term lease of two new Boeing 737-8 aircraft, scheduled for delivery in 2026.
DAE CEO Firoz Tarapore said the agreement marks the start of a new customer relationship and supports Somon Air’s fleet growth as the national carrier of Tajikistan.
IAT Leasing Acquires Two Boeing 787-9 Aircraft
IAT Leasing announced the acquisition of two 2017-vintage Boeing 787-9 aircraft currently on lease in the Middle East. The aircraft were acquired on behalf of funds managed by Blue Owl Capital, with IAT providing lease administration and asset management services. The aircraft were previously managed by SMBC Aviation Capital.
The transaction marks IAT’s first Boeing 787-9 under management, its entry into next-generation widebody assets, and its first transaction in the Middle East. CEO Martin Browne said the acquisition reflects confidence in the long-term fundamentals of the 787-9 platform.
Acumen’s Take
On Aergo’s Leadership Transition
A structured CEO succession signals institutional maturity and strategic continuity, particularly important in a capital-intensive, relationship-driven sector such as aircraft leasing.
On DAE’s Somon Air Agreement
The lease highlights continued narrowbody demand in emerging markets, where fleet renewal and fuel efficiency remain central to sustainable growth strategies.
On IAT’s 787-9 Entry
The move into next-generation widebody management broadens IAT’s portfolio profile and reflects ongoing investor confidence in long-haul recovery and modern twin-aisle demand.
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