SMBC Aviation Capital concludes four aircraft deal with new customer Lucky Air

July 5th 2017 – SMBC Aviation Capital and Chinese low-cost carrier, Lucky Air, today announced that they have entered into an agreement for the placement of four Boeing B737-8 MAX aircraft. This deal represents SMBC Aviation Capital’s first placement of the MAX aircraft from its order book with Boeing and Lucky Air’s first order of a Boeing 737-8 MAX aircraft.

The new aircraft are scheduled to deliver in 2018 and 2019. The 737 MAX aircraft is one of the most technologically advanced in the world and is equipped with CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets and other improvements to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market. The aircraft will support Lucky Air’s low-cost strategy within China.

Mr Ding Yongzheng, CEO of Lucky Air commented, “After conducting extensive research‎, we concluded that the 737 MAX would be an ideal fit for our low-cost carrier strategy. Providing the latest technical innovations and unbeatable economics, the 737 MAX is an exciting new addition to our fleet and we look forward to continuing to develop our low-cost model using the most modern, comfortable and most efficient aircraft.”

Mr Peter Barrett, CEO, SMBC Aviation Capital added, “We look forward to building on our new relationship with Lucky Air with the placement of these four aircraft, which are some of the most technologically advanced aircraft in the world. This is our first placement of a 737-MAX, an aircraft we believe will offer a strong solution for the developing requirements of the single aisle market.”

SMBC Aviation Capital has an order for 90 Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, originally placed in 2014 and 2015.