Air T's Crestone Air Partners Acquires Arena Aviation Capital

Air T, Inc. has announced that Crestone Air Partners has completed the acquisition of Arena Aviation Capital. This move boosts Air T's assets under management to over $3.6 billion. The acquisition, initiated in March 2026, has expanded Crestone's portfolio significantly.

The deal enhances Crestone's capacity, with a remarkable increase from $800 million AUM in December 2025 to $3.6 billion post-transaction. Blue Owl Capital has also invested in Crestone, valuing it at $80 million post-merger. Air T now controls approximately 83.9% of Crestone's equity.

CEO Nick Swenson emphasized Air T's strategy of enabling growth through permanent capital investments. Crestone will leverage Air T's network to support its leasing and aviation services, emphasizing a buy-to-build approach rather than trading. This strategy highlights Air T's commitment to sustainable growth.