SMBC Aviation Capital signed its first deal with new customer, Air Busan.The transaction involves the placement of one A321neo aircraft from the lessor’s orderbook. The aircraft which will be powered by Leap CFM engines will be delivered in February 2021.

Han Tae-keun, President of Air Busan, said: “The addition of this A321neo aircraft from SMBC Aviation Capital to our fleet is in line with our fleet expansion strategy and with our objective of operating fuel efficient, technologically enhanced aircraft.”

Brian Harvey, chief marketing officer of SMBC Aviation Capital, said: “We are very pleased to work with new customer Air Busan as we assist the airline with its expansion strategy and in parallel deepen our footprint in this region.”

Air Busan, based in Korea, is 44.1% owned by Asiana Airlines.