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SMBC Aviation Capital Places Two Airbus A321XLR Aircraft with Air Seychelles
21/07/2026
Dublin, Ireland – 22 July 2026 – SMBC Aviation Capital, the leading global aviation finance platform, announced the placement of two (2) Airbus A321XLR aircraft with Air Seychelles, with deliveries scheduled for 2028. The aircraft form part of SMBC Aviation Capital's order book with Airbus.
This transaction underscores SMBC Aviation Capital's continued strategy of supporting airlines across the African and Indian Ocean region with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft.
Commenting on the placement, Barry Flannery, Chief Commercial Officer of SMBC Aviation Capital, said: “This placement reflects the confidence we have in Air Seychelles' growth strategy and the important role the A321XLR will play in extending its network. We look forward to supporting the airline as it prepares to welcome these aircraft into service from 2028."
Sandy Benoiton, CEO at Air Seychelles, said: “This agreement with SMBC Aviation Capital marks an important milestone in our future fleet development. The A321XLR is an amazing aircraft that will allow us to reach our traditional source markets for tourists as well as cultivate new markets. We value our relationship with SMBC Aviation Capital and look forward to partnering with them on our expanding growth plans.”
About SMBC Aviation Capital
SMBC Aviation Capital is the leading global aviation finance platform, servicing a fleet of 1,700 aircraft with more than 170 airlines globally. Benefiting from the strong support of its shareholders Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group and Sumitomo Corporation, SMBC Aviation Capital has a high-quality global airline customer base with an owned portfolio comprising 80% new technology aircraft (by net book value). 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. For more information, please visit: https://www.smbc.aero/
About Air Seychelles
The Seychelles’ national carrier has been flying for over 45 years. Air Seychelles operates regionally from its home in Mahe to Colombo, Johannesburg, Mauritius and Abi Dhabi with state-of-the-art Airbus A320Neos. Domestically, the airline operates up to 30 roundtrips a day to Praslin, the second largest island in the archipelago, along with various charters to other islands on its twin-otter fleet.
Air Seychelles offers ground handling services to major commercial and private airlines at its base in Mahe, Seychelles.
In 2025, Air Seychelles was recognised as ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline’ at the prestigious World Travel Awards and also claimed the coveted titles of ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Airline – Economy Class’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Cabin Crew.’
For more information, visit www.airseychelles.com
Media contacts
SMBC Aviation Capital
Ellen Sherry – +353 86 7825906
Air Seychelles
Louise Testa – +248 439 1032 or +248 2512888
“This placement reflects the confidence we have in Air Seychelles' growth strategy and the important role the A321XLR will play in extending its network. We look forward to supporting the airline as it prepares to welcome these aircraft into service from 2028."
Barry Flannery, Chief Commercial Officer of SMBC Aviation Capital