GECAS entered an agreement with Hongtu Airlines’ for the lease of four A320neos from GECAS’ skyline orderbook when they enter service beginning Q1/19.

Headquartered in the Yunnan Province’s capital of Kunming, Hongtu Airlines launched operations in May 2016 and presently operates a fleet of four Airbus aircraft.

“GECAS is delighted to partner with Hongtu Airlines as they look to expand their operations,” said Alec Burger, GE Capital president and GECAS president and CEO. “These new-technology aircraft, incorporating CFM Leap-1A engines, optimize fuel consumption while doubling Hongtu’s fleet and their capacity to serve their customers. As Hongtu Airlines grows, we wish them every success and we look forward to deepening our relationship with the carrier.”

“By leveraging the GECAS orderbook, Hongtu Airlines will be able to better serve our passengers with the latest technical and comfort enhancements as well as expand our operations to meet the needs of our travelers within China,” said Gang Liu, CEO of Hongtu Airlines.