Aircraft Engine Lease Finance, Inc ("AELF") announced it has leased a third Boeing 737-800 to South Africa's FlySafair. The 2016 vintage aircraft, MSN 40971, was acquired by AELF with financing provided by Investec Bank Limited ("Investec").

"We are pleased to support the growth of FlySafair's fleet and appreciate the opportunity to expand our relationship with Investec," said Joe Cirillo, Chief Commercial Officer. "Our thanks to both organizations for their work on this transaction, which is directly in line with our strategic growth plans in the narrowbody market."

Over the last year AELF has been actively acquiring 737-800s for long term operating lease as it expands its aircraft portfolio. FlySafair operates a narrowbody fleet largely comprised of the 737-800s.

"Maintaining efficiency on costs and through reliability is core to our business model and we are happy to have aligned with a partner that understands these requirements." said Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair.

MSN 40971 is AELF's second 737-800 financed by Investec, having also financed a sister ship with the lender last year.

"We are proud to once again partner with AELF and FlySafair with this transaction," said Thato Matsha, Aviation Finance at Investec South Africa. "We regard AELF and FlySafair as excellent operators in the aviation sector and are pleased to be able to strengthen the relationships we have built with both in recent years."