In a strategic collaboration, Canada’s Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec (CDPQ) has joined forces with aircraft lessor SMBC Aviation Capital to establish a robust global aircraft financing platform known as Maple Aircraft Company Holdings. The platform aims to finance and lease modern, fuel-efficient next-generation aircraft, with an initial deployment of $500 million annually over a three-year period.
Under this partnership, SMBC Aviation Capital will take charge of sourcing transactions, invest alongside the platform, and serve as the primary servicer. Peter Barrett, CEO at SMBC Aviation Capital, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “CDPQ is an experienced, well-respected global investment group, which is aligned with our own views on capital allocation and a sustainable aviation industry. We look forward to working with our new partners over the coming years on this collaboration.”
Marc Cormier, EVP and Head of Fixed Income at CDPQ, emphasized the significance of the collaboration, stating, “Building on CDPQ’s experience in the aircraft financing industry, through this new platform, we will continue to provide flexible financing solutions for airlines to meet their future fleet requirements.” Cormier further expressed delight in partnering with SMBC Aviation Capital, recognizing them as an industry leader with a successful track record and a commitment to sustainable aviation. The goal of the collaboration is to identify optimal opportunities in the commercial aircraft industry and achieve attractive risk-adjusted returns over the long term.
