Pursuits

Deal-Making Hits China Plane Leasing as Billionaire Li Jumps In

  • Chinese companies cited in more than $16 billion of deals
  • Rising air travel demand and steady yields are key attractions

Li Ka-shing.

Photographer: Lam Yik Fei/Bloomberg
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China is making the aircraft-leasing business a popular destination for mergers and acquisitions.

Plane-leasing companies in China have been involved in more than $16 billion worth of acquisitions since last year, according to figures compiled by Bloomberg. In addition, billionaire tycoons such as Li Ka-shing, Hong Kong’s richest man, have entered the industry during that period.