CDPQ and SMBC Aviation Capital partner to create $1.5bn aircraft financing platform

CDPQ, a global investment group, and aircraft lessor SMBC Aviation Capital have finalised an agreement to create a $1.5bn global aircraft financing and leasing platform dedicated to modern, fuel-efficient next generation aircraft. The partners state that the new platform will focus on worldwide opportunities in new technology aircraft and target an initial deployment of $500 million per year, over three years. SMBC Aviation Capital will source transactions and, under a sistership condition, invest in opportunities alongside the platform. SMBC Aviation Capital will also act as servicer of the platform, which will operate under the banner Maple Aircraft Company Holdings. “Building