01 Aug 2025
#1 August 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
Azul Receives Final Court Approval for $1.6 Billion DIP Financing
Azul announced that it has received final approval from the Court for key motions in its Chapter 11 proceedings, including its $1.6 billion debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing. No objections were raised during the hearing, signalling stakeholder alignment and confidence in Azul’s restructuring process.
This approval enables the airline to maintain normal operations while pursuing its accelerated transformation plan.
John Rodgerson, CEO of Azul, stated:
“With the final DIP approval in hand and the continued backing of our key financial stakeholders, Azul is well-positioned to execute on our transformation plan and emerge as a stronger, more competitive airline. This outcome is a testament to the strength of our business and the commitment of our Crewmembers, Customers, and partners who continue to support Azul every day.”
Export-Import Bank of the United States Approves $297 Million Aircraft Export to Angola
The Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) has approved a nearly $297 million transaction to support the export of Boeing 787-10 aircraft and GE Aerospace spare engines to TAAG Angola Airlines. The deal is expected to support approximately 1,400 U.S. jobs, contributing to both American industrial output and Angola’s aviation development.
James Cruse, Acting President and Chairman of EXIM, said:
“With today’s approval, we are supporting the nation’s economic security while bolstering Angola’s economy through the export of these aircraft and engines.”
Magnetic Leasing Sells Airbus A321 to GA Telesis
Magnetic Leasing confirmed the sale of an Airbus A321-200 (MSN 1734) to GA Telesis, with the aircraft scheduled for disassembly at Cotswold Airport (EGBP). The move is part of GA Telesis’ strategy to enhance its inventory of used serviceable material (USM).
Jim Sokol, President of GA Telesis Flight Solutions Group, commented:
“Acquiring this A321-200 for disassembly underscores our ongoing commitment to meeting the growing global demand for high-quality USM. GA Telesis is the undisputed leader in the USM supply chain… and this asset will further strengthen our ability to support our airline and MRO customers around the world.”
Acumen’s Take
On Azul’s Final DIP Approval and Restructuring Progress
Azul’s ability to secure final court approval without objections is a strong signal of creditor alignment, a crucial factor for successful restructurings. The $1.6 billion DIP funding strengthens liquidity during transformation and reinforces the viability of its operating model. Azul’s steady progress offers a roadmap for other Latin American carriers navigating post-pandemic financial recovery through Chapter 11 mechanisms.
On EXIM’s Boeing and GE Export Backing for TAAG
EXIM’s approval of the Angola transaction reflects a dual-pronged strategy: supporting U.S. aerospace employment while enhancing aviation infrastructure in Africa. For lessors and OEMs, such sovereign-backed deals present risk-mitigated growth opportunities. For Angola, this bolsters its flag carrier’s capacity, with potential spill-over into regional connectivity and economic stimulus.
On Magnetic Leasing’s Sale to GA Telesis
This transaction highlights the continued growth of the end-of-life asset management segment. As demand for USM surges due to supply chain constraints and rising maintenance costs, players like GA Telesis are aggressively building teardown inventory. The A321, with strong parts demand across fleets, is especially well-positioned in the mid-life asset recovery space.
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