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Dublin, Ireland, January 27, 2025

DAE Sells Assets to and Signs Servicing Agreement with K2 Aviation

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd (“DAE”), a leading global aviation services corporation, today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement with K2 Aviation, a mid- to end-of-life aviation investor, to sell 7 Airbus and Boeing aircraft on lease to 6 airline customers. 

 

DAE also signed an agreement with K2 Aviation to become the servicer of the assets. Under this agreement, DAE will provide lease and credit management, aircraft remarketing, aircraft disposition, and aircraft asset management services to K2 Aviation. 

 

Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE commented, “DAE has a strong, and longstanding relationship with the management team of K2 Aviation. DAE is excited to deepen our relationship through this transaction.”

 

“This acquisition launches K2 Aviation and is a great mix of mid-life assets on lease to reputable global airlines,” added Charles Graham, K2 Aviation Chairman. “It also expands our existing, valued relationship with DAE, with whom the K2 Aviation team has worked for many years.” K2 Aviation expects to continue building its portfolio of mid-life assets throughout 2025.

 

DAE’s Aircraft Investor Services (AIS) group is a seasoned aircraft asset manager with over 100 aircraft valued at US$4 billion under management at the end of 2024. AIS acts as Servicer on fourteen servicing and management agreements for institutional and financial investors, including seven structured aircraft portfolio transactions. 

 

DAE expects all aircraft to close in the first half of 2025. 

About DAE

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd is a globally recognized aviation services corporation with two divisions: DAE Capital and DAE Engineering. Headquartered in Dubai, DAE serves over 170 airline customers in over 65 countries from its seven office locations in Dubai, Dublin, Amman, Singapore, Miami, New York, and Seattle.

DAE Capital is an award-winning aircraft lessor with an owned, managed, and committed fleet of approximately 500 Airbus, ATR, and Boeing aircraft with a fleet value of US$18 billion. DAE Engineering provides regional MRO services to customers in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and South Asia from its state-of-the-art facility in Amman, Jordan, accommodating up to 17 wide and narrow body aircraft. It is authorized to work on 15 aircraft types and has regulatory approval from over 25 regulators globally. More information can be found on the company’s web site at www.dubaiaerospace.com.

 

About K2 Aviation

K2 Aviation, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, has the full spectrum of in-house management and structuring capabilities to invest in and service portfolios across a variety of global jurisdictions. With a clear vision and an experienced leadership team, the company is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the aviation industry and to achieve outstanding returns.  K2 Aviation has the financial backing of the Franklin BSP Capital Corporation (“FBCC”). For additional information, please visit www.k2aviationpartners.com or LinkedIn.

 

For further information, please contact:

 

Karl Ryan

Managing Partner

kryan@k2aviationpartners.com      

Dublin, Ireland June 11, 2024 

Kahala Aviation Group Relaunches as K2 Aviation with Renewed Team and Focus on Mid to End-of-Life Commercial Aircraft Investments 

 Kahala Aviation Group, a prominent aircraft lessor in the aviation industry since the early 2000s, proudly announces its relaunch under the new brand name K2 Aviation. Building on a legacy of experience and providing unique solutions for lessors, airlines, and capital partners, K2 Aviation is set to re-enter the market with a strategic focus on mid to end-of-life commercial aircraft investments globally. 

The relaunched company is founded by a seasoned team of industry veterans who will bring a wealth of experience and expertise:

 

-Charles Graham, Executive Chairman

-Michael Howard, Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

-Sebastian Lourier, Chief Operating Officer (COO)

-Karl Ryan, Managing Partner

K2 Aviation's mission is to leverage its deep industry knowledge and robust network to maximize the value of mid-life and end-of-life commercial aircraft. This strategic focus aims to create significant investment opportunities and offer tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clients. The partners of K2 Aviation possess extensive knowledge in all aspects of aircraft and engine leasing with experience ranging from narrowbody, regional, turbo-prop and widebody aircraft operating with passenger and cargo airlines. 

Charles Graham, Executive Chairman of K2 Aviation, expressed his enthusiasm for the relaunch: “K2 Aviation represents the evolution of Kahala’s successful journey. Our rebranding reflects our commitment to adapting and thriving in the dynamic aviation market. With our core focus and exceptional team, we are excited to drive new growth and value for our partners.” 

Michael Howard, CFO, highlighted the financial strategy underpinning the new focus: “Investing in mid to end-of-life aircraft presents unique opportunities for value creation. Our financial acumen, ongoing financial support from our investor, metal management capabilities and strategic approach will ensure we unlock the full potential of these assets.” 

About K2 Aviation 

K2 Aviation, formerly known as Kahala Aviation, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, has the full spectrum of in-house management and structuring capabilities to service portfolios across a variety of global jurisdictions. With a clear vision and an experienced leadership team, the company is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the aviation industry and to achieve outstanding results. 

With its legacy of success dating back to the early 2000s, the company is dedicated to optimizing asset values and providing innovative solutions for lessors, airlines, and capital partners during its next phase of growth. 

For more information, please visit www.k2aviationpartners.com or contact: 

Media Contact: 

Karl Ryan 

Managing Partner 

kryan@k2aviationpartners.com 

www.k2aviationpartners.com 

+1 425 624 7408 

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