Industry SMBC Aviation Capital orders 65 A320neo Family aircraft

SMBC confirmed that it will purchase an additional 65 A320neo Family aircraft. The order consists of 15 A321neos and 50 A320neos and brings the company´s order book at Airbus to a total of 181 aircraft. Airbus said, that the order was finalized in 2018.

Additionally, SMBC has upsized 15 A320neos to A321neos. Now, SMBC has a total of 30 A321neo on order. Last year, the company ordered 71 airframes.

Peter Barrett, CEO, SMBC Aviation Capital said: “Demand for the latest technology aircraft has been strong both from our existing and new customers, hence our decision today to proceed with this order [...] We have a strong relationship with Airbus and we look forward to working with them to continue to deliver for our customers long into the future.”

With the A320neo and A321neo, SMBC seeks to acquire new customers that want to rely on reliable and modern aircraft. Airbus´ A320neo Family incorporates state-of-the-art engines with aerodynamic advantages like sharklets.

“As one of the world’s leading aircraft lessors, SMBC Aviation Capital’s repeat order demonstrates its financial astuteness in making wise investments in the A320neo Family. In 2018, the direct leasing market represented over 30% of our 800 worldwide deliveries – as much as Europe and the Americas combined,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer.

The powerful LEAP-1A and PW1000G engines power the A320neo Family. They offer its operators 15 percent better fuel efficiency, compared to older aircraft generations. By 2020, Airbus announced, the aircraft will fly 20 percent more efficient.

To date, Airbus´s successful A320neo Family experienced more than 6,500 orders from over 100 worldwide customers. Launched in 2010, the Family has captured around 60 percent market share.