CDB Aviation delivered the first of six Airbus A330-900neo aircraft as part of a sale and leaseback transaction and on long-term lease to a new customer in Asia Pacific, the flag carrier of Indonesia, Garuda Indonesia.

The fleet of six A330neo widebody airliners, equipped with latest generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and configured in a two-class cabin layout with 24 seats in business and 277 seats in economy, will support the company’s growth and business expansion in the future.

“We are delighted to welcome Garuda to our growing Asia Pacific customer base,” noted CDB Aviation Head of Commercial, Asia Pacific Sign Kadouh. “These A330neos will deliver superior operating economics and extended range capability to position Garuda for the sustained growth in its medium and long-haul operations as the company continues its long-term strategy to compete in the industry.”

This first aircraft is expected to be joined in the carrier’s fleet by two further units by the end of 2019, with the remaining three aircraft slated for delivery in 2020. The aircraft, fitted with Airbus’ Airspace cabin and featuring aerodynamic enhancements and new cabin features, will support the carrier’s commitment to deliver the most modern, comfortable, and excellent air travel service to all customers.

Patrick Hannigan, CDB Aviation president and chief commercial officer, commented, “The scale of this transaction further demonstrates the strength and robust capabilities of our evolved global platform, offering competitive financing and flexible fleet solutions to airlines in the world’s fastest-growing air travel markets.”

CDB Aviation is a wholly owned Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing, a 35-year-old Chinese leasing company that is backed mainly by the China Development Bank. CDB Leasing is engaged in aircraft, infrastructure, ship, commercial vehicle and construction machinery leasing.