SMBC Aviation Capital has ordered a further 60 A320neo Family airliners taking its total for the aircraft type purchased directly from Airbus to nearly 340 units.

For the Dublin-based and Japanese-owned firm, the acquisition signals its long-term confidence in air travel as the industry continues to see a steady recovery from the global pandemic.

In addition to its existing orders for the A320neo Family, this latest order ensures SMBC Aviation Capital will have a delivery stream that will continue beyond the end of the decade.

Based on the A320neo's current market price, the total purchase price is in the region of US$3.4 billion, which the aircraft lessor is expected to finance via bank loans and bond issues.

“This transaction is further testament of sustained global demand for technologically advanced, fuel-efficient aircraft, and comes amidst the continuing strong recovery in air travel worldwide,” says SMBC Aviation Capital chief executive officer Peter Barrett.

“With sustainability and operational efficiency remaining key priorities for our customers, we anticipate even greater demand for aircraft such as the A320neo and the A321neo in the years ahead. We look forward to strengthening our valued partnership with Airbus as we help our customers navigate these priorities,” Barrett adds.

The A320neo Family incorporates the latest technologies including new-generation engines, sharklets and aerodynamics, which together deliver a 20% lower fuel burn, less carbon emissions, and 50% noise reduction.