SMBC Aviation Capital announces deal to lease one Airbus A350 aircraft to Lufthansa

October 4, 2021: SMBC Aviation Capital, one of the world's leading aircraft leasing companies, has today announced that it has signed a direct operating lease agreement with Lufthansa for one Airbus A350-900 aircraft. (MSN 228)

The aircraft is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines and is scheduled for delivery in Q1 of 2022.

Peter Barrett, Chief Executive Officer, SMBC Aviation Capital said, “We are delighted to sign this agreement today, which represents our first direct operating lease with Lufthansa. We look forward to working with the airline on the delivery of this fuel-efficient A350 aircraft which will assist the airline in its fleet modernization program and help Lufthansa Group meet its demanding CO2 reduction targets.”

Dr. Detlef Kayser, Member of the Executive Board Deutsche Lufthansa AG, said, “The Airbus A350 is one of the most modern aircraft of our time. Extremely fuel-efficient, very quiet and much more economical than its predecessors. Our customers appreciate not only the sustainability but also the premium flight experience with this aircraft. This lease allows us to remain flexible in fleet planning and make the most of exceptional market opportunities.”

SMBC Aviation Capital’s fleet consists of 57% new technology aircraft which are the newest, most fuel efficient, lowest polluting technology on the market.

SMBC Aviation Capital is one of the top five aircraft lessors globally, with a fleet comprising over 730 owned, managed and committed aircraft, and benefits from a close relationship with its shareholders Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group and Sumitomo Corporation. SMBC Aviation Capital has a strong capital position and holds the joint highest credit rating out of all aircraft leasing companies, reflecting the long-term strength of its business.

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