06 Nov 2025
#1 November 2025: North American Aviation Newsletter
Air Canada Set to Expand Network with Arrival of Airbus A321XLR
Air Canada is preparing to usher in a new phase of international expansion with the upcoming delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR. The aircraft, which combines extended range and fuel efficiency, will enable the carrier to open new long-haul routes traditionally limited to widebody operations. Alexandre Lefevre, Vice President of Network Planning – North America and Scheduling, said, “This is a big deal for us, and it marks the beginning of a new chapter in our international growth strategy.” The A321XLR, offering a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km), will allow Air Canada to connect secondary cities with major global hubs. The first aircraft is expected to enter service in summer 2026 following testing and certification, with a new direct route to Palma de Mallorca among its inaugural destinations. The addition will strengthen Air Canada’s long-haul leisure and transatlantic network flexibility.
Air Lease Announces Airbus A321neo Lease Placement
Air Lease Corporation (ALC) announced a long-term lease agreement with startup Vietnamese carrier Sun PhuQuoc Airways for one new Airbus A321-200neo aircraft, scheduled for delivery in 2027. Senior Vice President Chi Yan stated, “We are pleased to lease this new Airbus A321neo to Sun PhuQuoc Airways and look forward to the continued growth of our relationship as the airline builds and optimizes its new fleet.” The agreement expands ALC’s footprint in Southeast Asia’s fast-growing aviation market and demonstrates the lessor’s continued commitment to supporting new entrants with efficient, next-generation aircraft.
Willis Lease Finance Corporation Announces Appointment
Willis Lease Finance Corporation (WLFC) announced the appointment of Pascal Picano as Senior Vice President, Aircraft Leasing & Trading, reporting directly to CEO Austin C. Willis. Picano will collaborate with Marc Pierpoint, Senior Vice President and Head of Trading & Investments, to advance WLFC’s global leasing and trading portfolio. Willis stated, “Pascal has been a trusted figure in aviation finance for decades, and we are delighted to welcome him to the WLFC senior leadership team. He brings deep expertise, an entrepreneurial mindset, and a proven record of success.” The appointment reinforces WLFC’s leadership structure as the company continues to diversify its asset portfolio and strengthen its position within the engine and aircraft leasing markets.
Acumen’s Take
On Air Canada’s A321XLR Expansion
Air Canada’s integration of the A321XLR signals a strategic evolution in its long-haul network planning. The aircraft’s extended range allows the carrier to efficiently serve mid-capacity transatlantic and leisure routes that were previously uneconomical for widebodies. This shift reflects a broader industry trend toward narrowbody long-haul operations, optimising fleet deployment and route economics.
On Air Lease’s Sun PhuQuoc Agreement
The ALC–Sun PhuQuoc deal underscores ongoing investment confidence in Southeast Asia’s post-pandemic growth trajectory. For Air Lease, expanding partnerships with emerging regional carriers diversifies portfolio exposure while supporting the modernisation of Asia’s short-to-medium-haul networks.
On WLFC’s Leadership Appointment
Pascal Picano’s appointment reinforces WLFC’s strategic intent to strengthen its trading and investment capabilities. His extensive experience in asset management and aviation finance will be instrumental as the company scales its leasing platform amid a shifting market for engine and mid-life asset opportunities.
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