So I just read that about half of the planes we fly on are actually leased and not owned by the airlines. I mean, I knew leasing was a big deal, but I didn't realize it was this widespread. It's kinda wild to think that when you board a Delta A330 or a Ryanair 737 MAX, there's a 50/50 chance they don't actually own it. These leasing companies basically buy planes from Airbus or Boeing and then lease them out to airlines. The airline runs the show with their crew and routes, but the lessor holds onto the ownership. And when the lease is up, they just find another airline to take it on.
It makes me wonder how this affects the airlines' strategies. Like, do they prefer leasing over buying because it's less risky or more flexible? Also, what happens if a lease expires and there's no new operator ready to take over? Do they just park it in the desert until someone comes along? Would love to hear what you all think about this whole leasing game and how it shapes the industry. Anyone got insights?
It makes me wonder how this affects the airlines' strategies. Like, do they prefer leasing over buying because it's less risky or more flexible? Also, what happens if a lease expires and there's no new operator ready to take over? Do they just park it in the desert until someone comes along? Would love to hear what you all think about this whole leasing game and how it shapes the industry. Anyone got insights?