Empowering African Aviation to Soar Higher Absa | Corporate and Investment Banking > Insights and Events > Empowering African Aviation to Soar Higher SHARE As Lender, Absa proudly supported the successful close of a USD 31 million aircraft financing transaction for Aircraft Engine Lease Finance Inc. (AELF) - a leading US-based commercial aircraft and engine leasing platform focused on mid- to end-of-life aviation assets. As Lender, Absa proudly supported the successful close of a USD 31 million aircraft financing transaction for Aircraft Engine Lease Finance Inc. (AELF) - a leading US-based commercial aircraft and engine leasing platform focused on mid- to end-of-life aviation assets. The transaction refinanced the acquisition of Airbus A330-300, currently leased to South African Airways (SAA), marking a key milestone in the national carrier’s post-restructuring growth. Originally delivered new to SAA in 2016 and returned to lessors during its business rescue process, the aircraft’s reintegration into the fleet significantly enhances the airline’s long-haul capacity and strengthens its ability to compete on high-demand international routes. For AELF, this marks the fourth aircraft placed with a South African carrier, reinforcing the firm’s strategic focus on the region. This transaction highlights Absa’s ability to design tailored, cross-border asset finance solutions that enable complex transactions in highly regulated industries. More than a capital deployment, the deal contributes to broader economic empowerment - stimulating job creation, enabling technical upskilling, and strengthening South Africa’s aviation ecosystem through enhanced infrastructure and connectivity. By financing this strategically important asset, Absa reaffirms its commitment to enabling inclusive, sustainable economic growth and advancing critical sectors across the continent. For more information Contact John Zama https://cib.absa.africa/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/file_example_MP3_700KB.mp3 Related Articles DEALS Energising Progress with Africa’s Largest Standalone Battery Facility We are proud to have played a pivotal role in one of Africa’s most significant energy milestones: the Red Sands Battery Energy Storage Project which is set to become the continent’s largest standalone battery energy storage facility to date to move towards construction. Read more DEALS Supporting expansion in SA’s healthcare property market Absa CIB partners with Growthpoint Healthcare Property Holdings on a R950 million facility to finance healthcare infrastructure. Read more DEALS Connecting African Growth with Global Capital Absa Corporate and Investment Banking supported Ecobank Transnational Inc.’s (ETI) landmark $125 million Eurobond Tap - the first African financial institution issuance in international markets following the tariff-related US market disruption. Read more