CDB Leasing discloseable transaction in relation to buy, leaseback of two aircraft

CDB Aviation, a wholly owned Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. (CDB Leasing), recently completed a sale and leaseback transaction for one Airbus A350-900 aircraft with Air France. This marks the first lease agreement from CDB Aviation that includes sustainability-linked key performance indicators (KPIs), reflecting the company’s growing emphasis on environmentally responsible aviation finance.

The A350-900, named “Cherbourg-en-Cotentin,” is configured with 292 seats and will support Air France’s fleet modernization efforts. The aircraft is expected to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, aligning with the airline’s sustainability goals. The transaction is part of CDB Aviation’s broader strategy to support airlines in transitioning to more fuel-efficient aircraft.

CDB Aviation has a history of executing similar transactions. For example, in 2020, the company entered into a sale and leaseback agreement with United Airlines for two Boeing 787-9 aircraft and ten Boeing 737-MAX8 aircraft, with three 737-MAX8s added later. These agreements were structured to provide United with liquidity while allowing CDB Aviation to expand its aircraft portfolio.

CDB Aviation is rated Investment Grade by major credit rating agencies, including Moody’s (A2), S&P Global (A), and Fitch (A+), underscoring its financial stability and creditworthiness. The company continues to expand its global footprint, with recent lease agreements in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.