Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer advised Airlink on leasing agreement for 10 new Embraer aircraft
The global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer (HSF Kramer) has advised Airlink on the leasing of ten new Embraer E195-E2 passenger jets from Azorra – a significant asset financing transaction supporting the South African regional airline’s continued expansion across sub-Saharan Africa.
Airlink currently maintains and operates a fleet of over 65 aircraft, servicing more than 45 destinations across 15 African countries. The addition of these new aircraft will enhance Airlink’s operational capacity, improve fuel efficiency, and support network growth.
In addition to the commercial and operational flexibility offered by the E195-E2 jet aircraft, Airlink will also benefit from cost savings and efficiencies owing to the high degree of commonality in operations, maintenance, training, and equipment with its existing E-Jet fleet.
Steven Catanzariti (Partner) commented,
“The new leasing agreement will allow Airlink to expand its regional fleet operations and support greater efficiencies and flexibility across the airline’s services. This deal is a great example of how we can leverage capability across our global network to provide the right expertise and best service to clients.”
Mr. de Villiers Engelbrecht (CEO, Airlink) also commended the collaboration, stating,
“It was a pleasure dealing with the HSF Kramer team. They are consummate professionals and clearly experts in aviation finance. The team was always available to Airlink while navigating across very different time zones — it was legal and administrative execution at its finest.”
This transaction further strengthens HSF Kramer’s market-leading track record in asset and leasing finance, following recent mandates advising airlines such as Scoot, Malaysia Airlines, and Philippine Airlines on financing and leasing transactions for over 30 narrow-body aircraft, as well as multiple JOLCO, operating lease, and corporate debt transactions.
The Australian HSF Kramer team was led by Steven Catanzariti (Partner) and James McNicol (Executive Counsel), supported by Luke Smith (Associate) in South Africa.
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