Row rect Shape Decorative svg added to bottom Empowering African Aviation to Soar 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. 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 Enabling mining development to support South Africa’s economic growth Absa CIB acts as joint mandated lead arranger, hedge provider, account bank and facility agent for West Wits Mining’s Qala Shallows Gold Project Read more DEALS Backing bold growth in Ghana Across Ghana’s manufacturing and consumer goods landscape, the need to scale efficiently, strengthen local production and remain competitive continues to grow. Read more DEALS Powering South Africa’s energy transition through scalable infrastructure solutions Absa Corporate and Investment Banking partnered with Mulilo Energy Holdings on the financing of the 77MW / 308MWh Hartebeesfontein Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project, acting as Joint Mandated Lead Arranger, Senior Lender, Hedge Provider and Agent Bank. Read more
