SMBC Aviation Capital has signed an agreement to place six Airbus A320neos with Russian carrier, S7 Airlines, with the deal also includeing a Pre-Delivery Payment facility for all the aircraft.

Powered by Pratt & Whitney engines, the aircraft are part of SMBC’s existing order book and are scheduled for delivery in 2020. “We are very pleased to conclude this transaction with Russia’s largest domestic carrier, S7 Airlines which continues to expand its network across Europe, the Middle East and Asia,” said Peter Barrett, CEO, SMBC Aviation Capital. “This deal from our order book demonstrates our capabilities in providing innovative fleet solutions to our customers.”

SMBC Aviation Capital has worked with S7 Airlines since 2013 and this new deal will increase the number of aircraft on lease with the carrier to thirteen.

CEO of S7 Airlines, Vladimir Obyedkov, said: “Together with our partner SMBC Aviation Capital we are pleased to offer our passengers an opportunity to travel on the most modern aircraft. S7 Airlines continues to upgrade its fleet, exploiting progressive technologies of the world’s leading producers. Last summer we became the first Russian carrier that introduced Airbus A320neos to its passengers. These aircraft with higher level of comfort and fuel efficiency significantly outrank the previous generation,” he added.