Scandinavian Airlines Systems (SAS) and Standard Chartered Bank have successfully closed a sale and operating leaseback transaction for two CFM LEAP-1A powered A320neo aircraft.

The first A320neo aircraft was delivered on 20 October 2016 and the second aircraft will be delivered during November 2016. The aircraft are the first deliveries from SAS’ order of thirty A320neo with Airbus. The aircraft will operate its first commercial service on 26 October.

Kieran Corr, Head, Aviation Finance at Standard Chartered said: “These are the first A320neo family aircraft introduced to the Standard Chartered fleet and we are delighted they are with SAS. Whilst a key part of our strategic focus will be to support clients in the Bank’s core markets of Asia Africa and the Middle East, Europe is increasingly an important part of the growth strategy for Standard Chartered’s Aviation Finance business and we are very pleased to be a partner to SAS’ fleet renewal programme. It demonstrates our capabilities and commitment to supporting key clients.”