Irish-based aircraft-leasing giant AerCap beats earnings target

Chief executive says post-lockdown demand and significant delays by major aircraft manufacturers will push lease rates up

AerCap, the world's largest aircraft-leasing firm, has announced a €473m share buyback.

AerCap, the world's largest aircraft-leasing firm, beat its full-year earnings target and announced a $500m (€473m) share buyback as it forecast upward pressure on lease rates for the foreseeable future.

The Irish-based leasing firm, which has a portfolio of 3,532 aircraft, engines and helicopters, reported adjusted earnings of $9.01 per share for 2022, well ahead of a November company forecast.