SMBC Aviation Capital announces first deal of 2018

Dublin, January 25th 2018: SMBC Aviation Capital, the leading aircraft leasing company has today announced a five aircraft deal with Wizz Air, the largest low-cost airline in Central and Eastern Europe. The transaction involves the sale and leaseback of five A321ceo aircraft with the delivery programme commencing from March 2018.

Wizz Air operates a fleet of 88 Airbus A320 and Airbus A321 aircraft, and offers more than 550 routes from 28 bases, connecting 145 destinations across 44 countries. These new A321ceo aircraft, which will be powered by IAE International Aero Engines AG’s V2500 engine, will provide additional capacity for Wizz Air’s continued growth.

József Váradi, CEO of Wizz Air commented, “We are pleased to confirm this deal with SMBC Aviation Capital. The addition of these aircraft will help us to continue to drive our operating costs lower as we aim to become the absolute cost leader in Europe. In 2018, we will remain focused on stimulating customer demand and making low cost air travel accessible for all, while delivering a great experience on-board one of the youngest aircraft fleets in Europe”.

Peter Barrett, CEO, SMBC Aviation Capital added, “We are delighted to confirm this announcement and look forward to developing our existing strong customer relationship with Wizz Air. The A321ceo aircraft offers airline customers superior seat-mile costs and seating capacity meaning that it is particularly suited to the low-cost carrier market.”

SMBC Aviation Capital’s owned, managed and committed portfolio of A321 aircraft stands at 20. In addition to its portfolio of A321s, SMBC Aviation Capital has a portfolio of 148 A320s and an order book of 110 A320neos.

The company currently has two existing aircraft on lease to Wizz Air.