17 Apr 2025
#3 April 2025: China Aviation Industry Newsletter
CALC Upsizes Warehouse Facility to US$700 Million with Global Banking Support
China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings (CALC) has successfully upsized its inaugural warehouse facility to US$700 million, making it one of the largest aviation finance syndications in decades. The expanded facility saw participation from 20 top-tier banks across China, Europe, and Asia, with over 20% of funding sourced from new lenders. CALC Executive Director Mr. Conrad Li highlighted that this financing milestone reflects strong confidence in CALC’s financial health and global growth strategy, and will enhance the company’s fleet expansion and sustainable growth efforts.
Cathay Pacific to Offer 100% Inflight Entertainment and Wi-Fi Connectivity Fleetwide
Cathay Pacific has announced that from August 2025, it will become one of the few airlines globally to offer 100% seatback inflight entertainment and high-speed Wi-Fi on every aircraft across its fleet. Passengers will have access to award-winning content and seamless connectivity in every cabin, on every route. Guillaume Vivet, General Manager of Customer Experience Design, described this milestone as part of the airline’s push to be the world’s best premium carrier, placing innovation and customer experience at the heart of its brand promise.
CDB Aviation Delivers Two Embraer E190s to French Airline Amelia
CDB Aviation has delivered two Embraer E190-100LR aircraft to Regourd Aviation, which operates under the Amelia brand. This marks the start of a new leasing relationship between CDB Aviation and the French regional airline. Gavan Daly, Head of Commercial, EMEA, noted that the aircraft will support Amelia’s fleet growth and open new opportunities for regional operations. The lease also reinforces CDB Aviation’s presence in the European regional market.
Acumen’s Take
On CALC’s US$700 Million Warehouse Facility Upsizing
CALC’s ability to secure significant oversubscription from global banks demonstrates the resilience of aircraft leasing as an investment class, especially in Asia. The diverse syndicate composition reflects CALC’s credibility and investor confidence, while the scale of the facility provides enhanced financial flexibility for future growth. Acumen sees this as a clear indicator of global appetite for China-based leasing platforms with international reach.
On Cathay Pacific’s Full-Fleet Digital Upgrade
By committing to full fleet-wide IFE and Wi-Fi, Cathay Pacific is solidifying its position as a leader in premium passenger experience. This initiative directly addresses evolving traveller expectations for connectivity and content, and positions Cathay as a benchmark airline in digital onboard services. Acumen views this as a strategic differentiator in an increasingly experience-driven market.
On CDB Aviation’s E190 Deliveries to Amelia
The placement of two Embraer E190s reflects ongoing demand for right-sized regional jets in European markets. This deal not only signals Amelia’s expansion ambitions, but also strengthens CDB Aviation’s presence in the E-Jet leasing space. Acumen recognises this as a strategic alignment of product and operator need, especially as regional carriers seek fuel-efficient, flexible fleet additions.
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