SMBC Aviation Capital has announced a series of major agreements with Airbus, Boeing and CFM International, marking one of the largest aircraft commitments in the company’s history. The combined deals include orders for 200 next-generation narrowbody aircraft, alongside an agreement for up to 90 additional LEAP 1-A engines, reinforcing the company’s long-term strategy to meet growing demand from airline and investor customers.
The orders comprise 100 Airbus A320neo Family aircraft and 100 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Under the Airbus agreement, SMBC Aviation Capital has placed firm orders for 65 A321neo and 35 A320neo aircraft, while the Boeing order includes 60 737 MAX 10 and 40 737 MAX 8 aircraft. Both aircraft families represent the latest generation of narrow-body aircraft, offering improved fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions than earlier models, while giving airlines greater flexibility across both short-haul and longer-range operations.
In addition to the aircraft orders, SMBC Aviation Capital has reached an agreement with engine manufacturer CFM International for up to 90 additional LEAP 1-A engines to support its existing Airbus A320neo Family orderbook. The agreement includes firm orders for 70 engines, together with purchase rights for a further 20.
“These transactions are a significant moment in SMBC Aviation Capital’s 25-year history and will ensure our customers have access to a continuous pipeline of the latest generation narrow-body aircraft through to the mid-2030s, enabling them to achieve their growth ambitions. These orders are strong statements of our confidence in the significant long-term demand for the A320neo family and the 737 MAX, the two latest-generation narrowbody types that offer unmatched operational flexibility, fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability for our customers.
This landmark combined aircraft order, which follows on from the recent completion of the Sumisho Air Lease transaction, means SMBC Aviation Capital is firmly positioned as the global aviation finance platform – offering one of the most competitive, well-capitalised and customer-focused leasing platforms in the industry, while delivering innovative solutions for our airline partners and sustainable returns for investors.”
– Peter Barrett, Chief Executive Officer of SMBC Aviation Capital.
The latest agreements further expand SMBC Aviation Capital’s future delivery pipeline and reflect its continued investment in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft. With additional Airbus, Boeing and CFM International orders now secured, the company is well positioned to support airline fleet renewal programmes and future growth over the coming decade.
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