Irish Firm AerCap to Acquire 20 Cargo Planes Amid Gaza Tensions

URGENT UPDATE: An Irish aircraft leasing company, AerCap, has just announced a major acquisition of 20 cargo planes from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), a firm linked to the ongoing war in Gaza. This deal, valued at approximately $400 million (€340 million), marks a significant development in the aviation sector, especially as it coincides with heightened tensions in the region.

The contract, originally set in motion in 2019, involves converting Boeing 777-300 passenger planes into freighters capable of carrying substantial cargo. This project, dubbed ‘Big Twin’, aims to introduce some of the largest cargo planes into operation, enhancing logistics capabilities amid increasing global demands.

The first converted aircraft has recently received approval from the US Federal Aviation Administration and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel, indicating that operations are set to commence soon. However, the involvement of IAI, a company with close ties to the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), raises significant ethical concerns, particularly in light of its role in the ongoing conflict.

IAI, which is state-owned, is known for producing military equipment including drones and missile systems used in operations in Gaza. While AerCap has stated that these planes will be leased out to cargo airlines and not utilized by the IDF directly, the partnership’s implications are drawing scrutiny from various global observers.

“The first freighter 777-300 aircraft will be leased to Kalitta Air, a US cargo airline with historical ties to military logistics,” a press release stated.

Kalitta Air, which has been pivotal in supporting U.S. military missions globally, was involved in transporting military equipment to Israel earlier this year. The specifics of the cargo these planes will carry are not yet disclosed, but the continued collaboration between AerCap and Kalitta Air suggests a focus on military logistics.

Aircraft leasing is a significant industry in Ireland, with AerCap being one of the leading entities. Roughly a quarter of the world’s commercial aircraft are owned by Irish companies, making Ireland a key player in global aviation.

In addition to this latest agreement, AerCap has been involved in leasing aircraft for deportation flights for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Irish government has supported AerCap through investments, emphasizing the company’s role in job creation within Ireland.

As tensions in Gaza continue, the international community watches closely. The implications of AerCap’s acquisition extend beyond commercial interests, highlighting the intersection of aviation and military logistics in a time of conflict.

Next, industry analysts and human rights advocates will be monitoring how this deal unfolds and its potential impact on both the aviation market and humanitarian concerns related to the ongoing violence in Gaza.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as more information becomes available.