AerCap Holdings Reports Record Q1 2026 Earnings, Raises Full‑Year Guidance and Launches $1 B Share Repurchase Program

AER
April 29, 2026

AerCap Holdings N.V. reported record first‑quarter 2026 results, with revenue of $2.24 billion and GAAP net income of $818 million, translating to an adjusted earnings per share of $5.39. The adjusted EPS beat consensus estimates by nearly 47 percent, driven by a 2 percent increase in basic lease rents and a 64 percent jump in net gain on asset sales, which rose to $291 million from $177 million in the same period a year earlier.

Revenue growth was supported by a mix shift toward new‑technology aircraft and engine leases, which now represent 77 percent of AerCap’s 3,569‑asset portfolio. Basic lease rents climbed to $1,682 million from $1,649 million in Q1 2025, while maintenance revenue remained elevated at $190 million. The company completed 286 transactions in the quarter, including 202 lease agreements and 52 sale transactions, underscoring its active portfolio management and strong market demand.

Management raised its full‑year 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to $14.50 per share, up from the prior $12.00‑$13.00 range, and announced a new $1 billion share‑repurchase program. The company also declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.40 per share. The guidance lift reflects confidence in continued demand and pricing power, while the buyback signals a commitment to returning capital to shareholders.

CEO Aengus Kelly said the record earnings “reflect the strength of our business model and our ability to execute complex transactions effectively. The strategic aircraft order with Airbus positions us well for future growth.” CFO Peter Juhas highlighted the record adjusted net income of $889 million, noting that the guidance does not include additional gains on sale expected in the remaining three quarters of 2026.

The results reinforce AerCap’s competitive moat, with robust demand offsetting headwinds such as geopolitical tensions and fuel‑price volatility. The company’s focus on new‑technology aircraft, a large and diversified portfolio, and disciplined cost management position it to sustain growth and deliver shareholder value throughout 2026.

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