News — 2025

SMBC Aviation Capital signs lease agreements with new customer Arajet for 5 Boeing 737 MAX 8

24/04/2025

SMBC Aviation Capital is delighted to announce the SLB (Sale and Leaseback) of five (5) Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with Arajet, scheduled to deliver in 2026 and 2027.

This pivotal milestone underscores our commitment to supporting Arajet's growth and expansion plans while reinforcing our position as a leading player in the global aviation leasing market.

Conor Stafford, Head of Airline Marketing, SMBC Aviation Capital, commented: “We are happy to partner with Arajet on this significant deal and welcome them as a new customer of SMBC Aviation Capital. This deal marks the start of our collaboration, and we are confident that these aircraft will greatly contribute to Arajet's success. This milestone reflects our dedication to providing tailored leasing solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.”

Víctor Pacheco Méndez, CEO of Arajet, said: “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with SMBC Aviation Capital as we expand our fleet with the addition of these state-of-the-art Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. This agreement supports our mission to provide safe, efficient, comfortable, and affordable travel options across the Americas. The trust and collaboration shown by SMBC Aviation Capital reflects the strength of Arajet’s business model and our shared commitment to innovation and sustainable growth in the aviation sector.”

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About SMBC Aviation Capital: 

Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, SMBC Aviation Capital is one of the world’s largest aircraft lessors. SMBC Aviation Capital has a high-quality global airline customer base with a portfolio comprising 86% narrow-body aircraft and 71% new technology aircraft (by net book value). With an owned managed and committed fleet of approximately 1000 aircraft, SMBC Aviation Capital has a strong capital position and holds an A- and BBB+ rating with S&P and Fitch respectively, reflecting the long-term strength of its business. 

About Arajet

Arajet is the flagship airline of the Dominican Republic. Recognized at the World Aviation Summit as the Best New Airline in the World in 2023. Beginning operations in 2022, it operates two bases, in Las Americas Airport in Santo Domingo and Punta Cana International Airport, with a new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft fleet. The airline provides safe and affordable travel to and between the Dominican Republic and various destinations in North, Central, and South America, and the Caribbean. For more information, visit www.arajet.com

“We are happy to partner with Arajet on this significant deal and welcome them as a new customer of SMBC Aviation Capital. This deal marks the start of our collaboration, and we are confident that these aircraft will greatly contribute to Arajet's success. This milestone reflects our dedication to providing tailored leasing solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.”

Conor Stafford, Head of Airline Marketing

Media Enquiries:

Conor Irwin/ Dara O’Sullivan/ Ellen Sherry
SMBC Aviation Capital

+353 1 859 9000

Email

Richard Webster-Smith
Partner
FGS Global

+44 7796 708 551

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