Debis AirFinance is seeking to conclude sale and leaseback deals with Classic and Next-Generation Boeing 737 operators as part of efforts to diversify its rapidly expanding aircraft portfolio.
The Amsterdam-based DaimlerChrysler subsidiary, meanwhile, has purchased 12 in-service aircraft from Dublin-based Airbus Industrie Financial Services (AIFS), comprising two A340-300s, three A330-300s, five A320s and two A300-600 freighters. The deal also includes three placed, but undelivered, A320s. Financial terms were not disclosed, but debis says the 15 aircraft have a combined market value of $750 million.
"We want to reach a size where we are a major player in the business," says debis senior vice-president, commercial, John McMahon. "We're not there yet, but this is another step in the right direction."
The deal gives debis a portfolio of 100 jets and turboprops, plus 33 A320s on firm order. It plans to focus on expanding its customer base and acquiring more Boeings, primarily 737s, says McMahon.
This will mainly involve sale and leaseback with 737 operators, although there is "every prospect" that an order for new aircraft will be placed with Boeing, he says.
The AIFS deal includes A340s in service with Virgin Atlantic and SriLankan Airlines, while the A330s are operated by Sabena and the A300Fs by Belgium's CityBird. Of the A320s, LACSA and TACA fly two each and Croatia Airlines one. The three undelivered A320s are assigned to three undisclosed airline operators.
The company has another 30 A320s on firm order for delivery from 2002.
Source: Flight International
