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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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Avolon Reports Strong Growth In Q1 2025 Results

Avolon has reported a 36% increase in net income for the first quarter of 2025, reaching US$145 million, alongside a 10% rise in lease revenue to US$683 million. The Ireland-based lessor also confirmed a robust liquidity position of US$8.1 billion, reinforcing its financial strength amid a steadily recovering aircraft leasing market.

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Dan Air to Launch Nine Routes from Bucharest in April 2025

Dan Air, a Romanian carrier, has announced plans to launch regular flights on nine new routes from Bucharest in April 2025, utilizing its fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft. This strategic expansion reflects the airline’s ambition to strengthen its presence in the European market and enhance connectivity from Romania’s capital.

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WestJet Resumes Halifax-Paris Service for Summer 2025

WestJet, Canada’s prominent low-cost carrier, has announced the return of its seasonal service between Halifax (YHZ)and Paris (CDG) for summer 2025. This transatlantic route will complement WestJet’s growing European network, which also includes services to Edinburgh, Dublin, and London, all resuming in May 2025.