25 Jul 2025
#4 July 2025: Irish Aircraft Leasing Newsletter
ABL Aviation Delivers A220-300 to Air France
ABL Aviation has successfully delivered a Pratt & Whitney PW1521G-3-powered Airbus A220-300 to Air France, marking the 13th aircraft delivered by the lessor. The A220-300, known for its fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, supports Air France’s ongoing fleet modernisation programme.
Ali Ben Lmadani, Founder and CEO of ABL Aviation, remarked:
“This delivery reflects the strength of our long-term collaboration with Air France. We value working with airline partners who are taking clear, practical steps toward more efficient and lower-emission operations. The Airbus A220-300 is a smart, future-ready aircraft, and we’re pleased to support Air France as it continues modernising its fleet.”
Investec Aviation Boosts AELF Partnership with Hawaiian Airlines Deal
Investec Aviation Finance has completed a second transaction with Aircraft Engine Lease Finance (AELF), financing an Airbus A330-200 currently on lease to Hawaiian Airlines. The aircraft was acquired from Avolon, with the deal structured around an interest rate swap by Investec’s Treasury Sales and Structuring (TSS) team.
Thato Matsha, Head of Aviation Finance at Investec, said:
“We are thrilled to take the next step in our growing relationship with AELF. As we explore future opportunities, our team will continue to leverage cross-selling opportunities, including hedging requirements and future lending prospects.”
Madagascar Airlines and Abelo Extend Leasing Agreements for Two ATR Aircraft
Madagascar Airlines has extended the leases on two ATR aircraft — ATR72-500 (MSN 698) and ATR72-600 (MSN 1248) — with Abelo, allowing operations to continue until January 2028 and November 2029, respectively.
Steve Gorman, CEO of Abelo, commented:
“We’re proud to continue our partnership with Madagascar Airlines as they execute their transformation plan. These lease extensions reflect the tangible progress the airline has made and our shared commitment to ensuring reliable regional connectivity in Madagascar.”
Stratos Delivers A330-300 to Amazon for P2F Conversion
Stratos has delivered an Airbus A330-300 to Amazon, which will undergo Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) conversion. The aircraft was previously operated by Corsair and will now bolster Amazon’s cargo fleet expansion.
Gary Fitzgerald, CEO of Stratos, said:
“We are delighted to have facilitated this transition from Corsair to Amazon. This placement showcases the strength of Stratos’ global network and our ability to source and dispose of high-quality assets tailored to the evolving needs of our clients. The A330 P2F market continues to gain momentum, and we’re proud to support this dynamic segment.”
Acumen’s Take
On ABL Aviation and Air France
This marks another milestone in ABL Aviation’s longstanding partnership with Air France, as the airline continues investing in its next-generation fleet. The A220-300’s superior performance and emissions profile make it a key aircraft in the carrier’s sustainability roadmap. For ABL, the delivery further cements its role in enabling fleet modernisation strategies for Europe’s full-service carriers.
On Investec and AELF's Hawaiian Deal
Investec’s expanded relationship with AELF demonstrates the growing importance of strategic lessor-lender partnerships in today’s market. The A330-200, placed with Hawaiian Airlines, is a resilient asset class in the widebody segment, and the deal showcases how structured financing tools like interest rate swaps are being deployed effectively to manage asset acquisition costs.
On Abelo's ATR Lease Extensions
The extension of ATR leases in Madagascar underlines the vital role regional aircraft play in ensuring air connectivity in geographically fragmented regions. Abelo’s support during Madagascar Airlines’ transformation phase highlights how specialised lessors can contribute meaningfully to regional development while diversifying their portfolio with mission-critical assets.
On Amazon’s A330 P2F from Stratos
Amazon’s decision to add an A330-300 to its cargo fleet is a clear indicator of the continued strength of the P2F conversion market, particularly in the A330 segment. With e-commerce driving freighter demand, Stratos’ delivery adds momentum to this shift and demonstrates its agility in repurposing aircraft to meet evolving client needs.
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