Avation Finances Acquisition of Airbus A320 with Etihad Airways

Deal News | Apr 15, 2025 | Stephenson Harwood LLP

Law firm Stephenson Harwood LLP has advised Avation PLC, a Singapore-based aircraft leasing company, on the financing and acquisition of a 2013-built Airbus A320, which is leased to Etihad Airways. The deal was financed by Investec Bank plc and included a lease extension with Abu Dhabi's Etihad until October 2031. This acquisition increases Avation's fleet to 33 aircraft, broadening its global customer base to 16 airlines in 14 countries. The legal team was led by Partner Saugata Mukherjee and supported by Managing Associate Clement Leung, Associates Bong Yumi and Bryan Liang, and Paralegal Michelle Wong. Avation's strategy focuses on leasing commercial passenger aircraft, while Etihad remains a major carrier in the Middle East.

Sectors

  • Aviation Leasing
  • Legal Advisory
  • Finance

Geography

  • Singapore – Location of Avation PLC's headquarters and significant for its role in global aircraft leasing.
  • United Arab Emirates – Home to Etihad Airways, the lessee of the Airbus A320.
  • United Kingdom – Location of Investec Bank plc and Stephenson Harwood LLP, contributors to the financing and legal advising on the deal.

Industry

  • Aviation Leasing – This involves leasing commercial aircraft to airlines. Avation PLC is an example, extending its aircraft fleet and global reach.
  • Legal Advisory – Stephenson Harwood LLP provided legal advisory services for the transaction, highlighting the role of legal firms in structuring and financing deals.
  • Finance – Investec Bank plc's role as the financing entity underscores the involvement of financial institutions in leasing and M&A transactions.

Financials

  • – The financing facilitated the acquisition and lease of a 2013-built Airbus A320, though specific financial figures are not provided.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
Avation PLCTargetCompanyA Singapore-based aircraft leasing company focused on leasing commercial passenger aircraft.
Stephenson Harwood LLPLegal AdvisorCompanyA law firm providing legal services for international business transactions.
Investec Bank plcFinancierCompanyA specialist bank providing investment and corporate banking services.
Etihad AirwaysLesseeCompanyAn Abu Dhabi-based airline, among the leading carriers in the Middle East.