Exclusive-Stonepeak nears $3.1 billion deal for aircraft lessor ATSG, sources say

Stonepeak is in advanced talks to acquire Air Transport Services Group, a provider of aircraft leasing and cargo transportation services, for about $3.1 billion including debt, people familiar with the matter said on Sunday. Stonepeak and ATSG did not immediately respond to requests for comment. This has boosted the prospects of freight operators like ATSG, making them attractive takeover targets.