La Caisse and SMBC double aircraft leasing platform to $3bn

Platform doubled from USD 1.5 billion to USD 3 billion following early deployment
Portfolio of 21 aircraft leased to 13 airlines across 10 markets since 2024 launch
Extended operational timeline through December 2029
SMBC Aviation Capital continues as transaction sourcer and servicer
Expansion positions platform to capitalise on attractive leasing market opportunities

La Caisse and SMBC Aviation Capital have announced the expansion of Maple Aircraft Company Holdings Limited, their joint aircraft financing and leasing platform, following the full deployment of its initial USD 1.5 billion commitment ahead of schedule. The platform will grow to USD 3 billion and extend its operational timeline through December 2029, expanding its capacity to provide airlines with flexible financing solutions for modern, fuel-efficient new-technology aircraft. Since its launch in 2024, MACH has built a portfolio of 21 aircraft leased to 13 airline customers across 10 markets, demonstrating strong execution and market demand.

SMBC Aviation Capital will continue to source transactions for the platform and act as servicer, leveraging its specialised aviation expertise and deep industry relationships. The Chief Commercial Officer of SMBC Aviation Capital, Barry Flannery, confirmed that the successful deployment of MACH demonstrates the strength of the partnership with La Caisse and the continuing demand for flexible aircraft financing solutions. The expansion positions the platform to build on this momentum and continue supporting airline customers worldwide with access to modern, fuel-efficient aircraft of the types that are most in demand.

The Executive Vice-President and Head of Private Equity and Private Credit at La Caisse, Martin Longchamps, noted that MACH’s strong execution since 2024 demonstrates the value of bringing together specialised aviation expertise, deep industry relationships and patient long-term capital. With favourable long-term market dynamics and increasing demand for flexible financing solutions, MACH is well positioned to expand its portfolio and capitalise on attractive opportunities across the aviation leasing market. The doubling of the platform’s capital base represents a significant vote of confidence in the aircraft leasing sector and the partnership’s ability to deliver returns through the remainder of the decade.