SMBC Aviation Capital has signed “definitive” lease agreements with United Airlines for 20 A321neo aircraft.
“These, new, more fuel-efficient aircraft will allow United to further grow their fleet and we are delighted to support them in this strategy,” said Barry Flannery, chief commercial officer at SMBC Aviation Capital.
He continued: “These agreements highlight the importance of our long-standing relationship with United and we look forward to many more years of successful partnership.”
The aircraft - previously announced as part of United’s fleet plan in April - are scheduled to deliver from 2026 and will come from SMBC Aviation Capital’s direct Airbus orderbook.
Michael Leskinen, United’s chief financial officer commented: “The relationship between SMBC and United has never been stronger and these leases are a meaningful part of our efforts to optimize our balance sheet and to increase our return on capital.”
He added: “We thank SMBC for its continued support and partnership.”
This deal is in addition to a recently completed 20 737-8 aircraft sale and leaseback transaction between SMBC Aviation Capital and United Airlines.