Just come across this with regard to the expansion of the Indian airline market...

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1015401.cms

snip..........
While airlines are secretive about rentals, it is said that South African Airways, which was being wooed both by Jet Airways and Air Sahara for leasing three Airbus 340-300s, is asking for a million dollars a piece as the monthly lease charge.
snip..........

Hence, it doesn’t come as a surprise that leasing companies or airlines that operate it currently, are demanding top dollars for renting it out. Air-India, for instance, is said to have leased three B777-200s for a monthly rental of around $700,000.

snip........

So, more than $20000 a day to rent a 777 and $33000 for an A340. Big money every day.... gotta keep 'em birds flying.