SMBC Aviation Capital concludes five A320neo aircraft deal with new customer, Chilean airline, JetSMART

These aircraft will be leased to the airline from SMBC Aviation Capital's order book with a delivery timeline of 2019. Powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, the aircraft will be deployed on routes in Chile and the surrounding region.

Estuardo Ortiz, CEO of JetSMART said "Our ambition is to become a leading player in the South American ultra-low-cost airline industry. We are making considerable investment in our fleet and the addition of these five aircraft are part of a journey to realise our ambition of reaching 100 aircraft and 100 million passengers by 2026."

Mr Peter Barrett, CEO, SMBC Aviation Capital added, "We are delighted to conclude this deal with JetSMART, one of South America's newest airlines and a new customer for SMBC Aviation Capital. This announcement also underlines our expanding footprint, not just in the Chilean market but right across the region. It is an exciting time for JetSMART and we are happy that we can support them at this crucial growth stage."