Falko Regional Aircraft Limited (Falko), the asset manager and aircraft lessor focused solely on the regional aircraft sector, has provided a summary of its first-quarter 2023 market activity.
Falko added four aircraft to its portfolio during the quarter and one aircraft was sold. Five aircraft were delivered on lease to customers during the quarter (including four acquired through sale-and-leaseback transactions) with lease extensions concluded on six aircraft. Purchase documentation was signed relating to the acquisition of four aircraft on lease to a North American carrier with completion expected in the second quarter. In addition, LOIs were signed in relation to the sale of one aircraft, the placement on lease of four aircraft and lease extensions relating to three aircraft.
Activity was focused on the regional jet sector with deals covering both the CRJ and E-Jet products. Lease demand was particularly strong from European carriers reflected in the number of lease extensions transacted in the first-quarter 2023. In addition, four new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft were delivered on lease to Porter Airlines in Canada.
As of March 31, 2023, Falko’s portfolio totalled 263 aircraft on lease to 45 customers worldwide.
Falko was formed in July 2011 through the purchase of BAE Systems Asset Management and its associated aircraft portfolio. In May 2022, Chorus Aviationcompleted the acquisition of Falko and equity interests in aircraft managed by Falko. Headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Chorus is an integrated provider of regional aviation solutions, including asset management services.