A fast-growing Chinese leasing company builds its future with Airbus

Airbus jetliners are to become a significant portion of the China Aircraft Leasing Company’s (CALC) portfolio based on this Hong Kong-based company’s latest commercial commitment, signed today at the Farnborough Airshow.

During a morning press conference, a memorandum of understanding was inked for 36 current-generation A320 Family aircraft, with flexibility for CALC to choose between the A319 and A321 versions based on leasing customer needs, according to CEO Dr. Mike Poon.  He added that customers also will be able to select Airbus’ fuel-saving and performance-enhancing Sharkets as part of the configuration.

With this new commitment, CALC’s Airbus jetliner inventory will increase to over 50 – representing a major element in the company’s strategy to increase its overall portfolio to 100 aircraft by 2015, Poon said.  The current CALC portfolio includes five A320s, five A321s and one A330. CALC also has three A330s and five A320s earmarked for delivery.