Global investment group CDPQ and SMBC Aviation Capital, one of the world’s leading aircraft leasing companies, have officially completed an agreement to establish a US$1.5 billion global aircraft financing and leasing platform dedicated to modern, fuel-efficient NextGen aircraft.
The platform will target worldwide opportunities in new-technology aircraft, with an initial deployment of US$500 million per year over three years. SMBC Aviation Capital will source transactions, invest alongside the platform under sister-ship conditions and serve as the platform’s servicer. The venture will operate under the name “Maple Aircraft Company Holdings Limited”.
Marc Cormier, Executive Vice-President and Head of Fixed Income at CDPQ, stated, “Building on CDPQ’s experience in the aircraft financing industry, through this new platform, we will continue to provide flexible financing solutions for airlines to meet their future fleet requirements.” Cormier expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with SMBC Aviation Capital, highlighting its successful track record and commitment to sustainable aviation.
Peter Barrett, Chief Executive Officer at SMBC Aviation Capital, commented, “We are pleased to partner with CDPQ on this new platform to benefit our airline customers worldwide. CDPQ is an experienced, well-respected global investment group, aligned with our views on capital allocation and a sustainable aviation industry. We look forward to collaborating with our new partners over the coming years.”
Created in 1965 to manage the funds of the Québec Pension Plan, a newly created universal pension plan, CDPQ’s current role is to manage investments on behalf of most of Québec’s public and para-public pension and insurance funds. CDPQ is headquartered in Quebec City, Canada.
