South African Airways (SAA) has welcomed the arrival of the first of three Airbus A320CEO aircraft from China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC).
The delivered aircraft, a 2016-vintage A320CEO equipped with IAE V2527-A5 SelectTwoTM engines, previously served in the fleet of Vietnamese airline Pacific Airlines before swiftly transitioning to SAA.
This delivery not only marks a strategic partnership between CALC and South Africa’s flag carrier but also underscores CALC’s commitment to expanding its footprint across the African continent. It showcases a globalized business approach, particularly within the southern hemisphere.
CALC’s dedication to maximizing asset value across the full life cycle of aircraft is evident in this transaction, emphasizing smooth transitions for used aircraft and leveraging its adaptability and extensive global network.
Prof. John Lamola, Interim Chief Executive Officer of South African Airways, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Given the current global aircraft supply chain constraints, we celebrate this achievement of a successful business relationship with CALC as we execute SAA’s fleet plan aimed at a profitable business model.”
Ms. Winnie Liu, President, and Chief Commercial Officer of CALC, echoed Lamola’s sentiments, emphasizing the significance of bolstering SAA’s fleet growth with young A320CEO aircraft leases. She congratulated SAA on its 90th anniversary of service this year and expressed anticipation for further solidifying the partnership, with aspirations to extend solutions to more African airlines in the future.
In 2023, CALC successfully repossessed and redelivered nine aircraft to several leading overseas airlines. As of March 31, 2024, the Group boasts 171 owned aircraft, 27 managed aircraft, and 135 aircraft on backlog.
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