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Macquarie AirFinance Explores Strategic Opportunities With J.P. Morgan

Macquarie AirFinance is evaluating strategic opportunities with the process being led by J.P. Morgan, according to industry sources in mid-August. The timing is aligned with favorable conditions in the global leasing market, as the U.S. Federal Reserve considers potential interest rate cuts and lessors look to expand capacity before the end of the year.

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BOC Aviation To Lease Three Airbus A320neo Family Jets To JetSMART

BOC Aviation Limited has signed an agreement with Airbus to purchase three new-generation aircraft—two Airbus A321neo and one Airbus A320neo—for long-term lease to South American ultra-low-cost carrier JetSMART Airlines. The aircraft, scheduled for delivery in 2027, will be powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, highlighting the lessor’s focus on providing modern and fuel-efficient fleet solutions.

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Virgin Australia Prepares for Boeing 737-8 MAX Delivery

Virgin Australia is strengthening its fleet strategy with the upcoming delivery of a new Boeing 737-8 MAX, underscoring its commitment to modernization and efficiency. The aircraft, carrying manufacturer serial number (MSN) 67035 and registered as VH-8VB, is powered by a pair of CFM International LEAP-1B27 engines. It is configured in a two-class cabin layout, accommodating 8 business class seats and 168 economy seats,…

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ACG Delivers A321neo to Wizz Air Under Sale-Leaseback

Aviation Capital Group (ACG) has announced the successful delivery of a new Airbus A321neo to Wizz Air, marking the eighth aircraft provided under an ongoing multi-aircraft sale-leaseback transaction between the two companies. This delivery further strengthens Wizz Air’s fleet modernization strategy, ensuring the airline continues to expand with efficient and environmentally advanced aircraft.

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Air Lease Delivers Two Airbus A321neos to China Airlines

Air Lease has announced the successful lease and delivery of two additional Airbus A321-200neo aircraft to China Airlines, further expanding the Taiwanese flag carrier’s modern narrowbody fleet. The two aircraft, delivered on August 16 and August 20, represent the seventh and eighth A321neos provided to China Airlines under long-term lease agreements from Air Lease’s extensive Airbus orderbook.

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SMBC Aviation Capital Launches GAEL II Fund With Japanese Investors

SMBC Aviation Capital, one of the world’s leading aircraft leasing companies, has announced the successful close of its second Japanese-focused investment fund, GAEL II (Global Aviation Equipment Leasing). The fund, finalized on 20 August 2025 in Dublin, raised equity capital from 14 Japanese financial investors to acquire a portfolio of eight aircraft from SMBC Aviation Capital’s portfolio.

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Avolon Delivers First Boeing 737-8 MAX to Virgin Australia Under Sale-Leaseback

Avolon, a leading global aviation finance company, has completed the delivery of the first of six Boeing 737-8 MAXaircraft under a sale and leaseback arrangement with Virgin Australia. The handover, announced on 21 August 2025 in Dublin, marks another milestone in the long-standing relationship between the lessor and the Australian carrier, which dates back to 2011.

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SMBC Aviation Capital Delivers Second Airbus A321neo To Air New Zealand

SMBC Aviation Capital has completed the delivery of its second Airbus A321-271NX to Air New Zealand Limited, finalizing a two-aircraft transaction between the Dublin-based lessor and the New Zealand flag carrier. This latest aircraft is powered by a pair of IAE PW1133G-JM geared turbofan engines, known for their fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, and represents a further enhancement to Air New…

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Castlelake Launches Merit AirFinance With $1.8B Lending Capability

Castlelake, a global alternative investment manager with two decades of experience in asset-based private markets, has announced the creation of Merit AirFinance, a dedicated aviation lending entity aimed at supplying debt capital to airlines and leasing companies for both new and used aviation assets. The move marks a significant strategic development, offering clear separation between Castlelake’s…