19 Feb 2026

#3 February 2026: Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter

Airlink Inc. and SMBC Aviation Capital Announce Three-Year Partnership

SMBC Aviation Capital and Airlink announced a new three-year €300,000 partnership to support global humanitarian response efforts during natural and manmade disasters. The funding will provide sustained backing for Airlink’s operations across regions including Sudan, Gaza, Haiti, the Philippines and Sri Lanka. The partnership reflects SMBC Aviation Capital’s commitment to social impact, leveraging aviation to enable rapid humanitarian access and disaster relief logistics.

SMBC Aviation Capital Completes Lufthansa A320neo Sale and Leaseback Deal

SMBC Aviation Capital completed a sale and leaseback transaction for six Airbus A320neo aircraft with Lufthansa. The deal aligns with SMBC’s strategy to broaden transaction structures with long-standing airline partners while supporting Lufthansa’s fleet renewal objectives. The A320neo family continues to remain one of the most sought-after narrowbody platforms globally due to its fuel efficiency, lower emissions profile and strong operating economics.

TrueNoord Amends and Extends US$600 Million Revolving Warehouse Facility

TrueNoord announced the successful amendment and extension of its US$600 million revolving warehouse facility. The transaction enhances funding flexibility and provides long-term capital visibility to support portfolio expansion. The facility also saw the addition of two new lenders, further strengthening TrueNoord’s diversified funding platform and reinforcing its position as a specialist regional aircraft lessor.

Acumen’s Take

On SMBC Aviation Capital’s Humanitarian Partnership

SMBC’s partnership with Airlink highlights how aircraft lessors are increasingly embedding ESG and social responsibility into long-term strategy. Structured, multi-year commitments provide stability to humanitarian operations while strengthening industry reputation.

On the Lufthansa A320neo Transaction

Sale and leaseback activity for next-generation narrowbodies remains robust. Strong airline demand for fuel-efficient platforms continues to drive leasing appetite and portfolio optimisation strategies.

On TrueNoord’s Funding Extension

Warehouse facility extensions signal lender confidence in regional aircraft platforms. Securing long-term funding flexibility positions specialist lessors to capitalise on sustained demand in the regional market segment.
 

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