KKR to Increase Stake in Altavair and AV AirFinance, Shares Rise on Deal News

KKR & Co. Inc. (NYSE: KKR) announced plans to increase its ownership stake in Altavair and AV AirFinance, two aircraft leasing firms, in a move signaling confidence in the aviation sector’s recovery. The transaction, expected to close by February 15, 2026, will see KKR acquire additional shares from existing shareholders, boosting its holding to approximately 48% in each entity. The deal follows strong performance in air cargo demand and rising aircraft utilization rates, according to recent industry data from IATA. Altavair and AV AirFinance collectively manage a fleet of 72 narrowbody and widebody aircraft, with a combined book value of $2.1 billion as of December 31, 2025. Both companies reported a 14% year-over-year increase in lease revenue during Q4 2025, driven by long-term contracts with major carriers in Europe and Asia.