A portfolio of ten converted Airbus A330-300 freighters, currently supporting the logistics network of Amazon Air, is being transferred to IAT Leasing in a move that signals a significant shift in the global freighter leasing landscape.
The widebody aircraft are operated by Alaska Air Group—following their integration through Hawaiian Airlines—and deployed on behalf of Amazon’s air cargo operations. The transaction sees IAT Leasing acquire the freighter portfolio from funds managed by Altavair, with the deal backed by capital from Blue Owl Capital and financing support from MUFG.
The acquisition represents a major milestone for IAT Leasing, marking its formal entry into the widebody freighter segment. By incorporating dedicated cargo aircraft into its portfolio, the lessor is positioning itself as a more diversified and competitive player in the global aircraft leasing market.
The Airbus A330-300 freighters included in the deal are powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines, a widely used and reliable propulsion system for long-haul widebody aircraft. The transaction also reinforces a prior agreement between IAT Leasing and Blue Owl Capital established earlier this year, which includes participation in Rolls-Royce’s LessorCare+ maintenance programme. This arrangement is expected to enhance asset lifecycle management and maintenance predictability for the newly acquired fleet.
From a strategic standpoint, the deal enables IAT Leasing to expand into a high-demand asset class at a time when air cargo capacity remains a critical component of global supply chains. The addition of widebody freighters not only increases the scale of its portfolio but also strengthens its ability to serve operators requiring long-haul cargo solutions.
For Amazon Air, the continued operation of these aircraft ensures stability within its air logistics network, which relies heavily on third-party operators and leased assets to maintain flexibility and scalability. The involvement of Alaska Air Group further underscores the collaborative model that defines much of the e-commerce giant’s aviation strategy.
Industry stakeholders view the transaction as part of a broader trend in which leasing companies are increasing their exposure to freighter assets, driven by sustained demand for air cargo capacity and the growth of e-commerce-driven logistics.
With this acquisition, IAT Leasing signals its intent to play a larger role in the evolving air cargo ecosystem, leveraging institutional investment, strategic partnerships, and modern aircraft platforms to support the next phase of global freight expansion.
