Jet-Leasing Firms Go on Buying Spree

Airbus and Boeing Co. are on track for a sales rebound in 2010, far outpacing expectations this time last year.

Higher airline traffic has been the main engine. But a less obvious factor is resurgent airplane-leasing companies, signaling new life in a corner of the aviation business that was gasping during the 2008 market meltdown.

Lessors account for more than 35% of orders at Airbus this year, up from 5% last year. At Boeing, lessors have placed 21%, up from 12%. The two companies next month are expected to report a combined rise of about 50% in all orders for this year, net of cancellations.