Aviation News – Global aircraft operating lessor BOC Aviation Limited has agreed to purchase 12 Airbus A320neo aircraft from manufacturer Airbus S.A.S. for long-term lease to long-standing airline customer Avianca. Scheduled for delivery in 2029, the newly acquired aircraft will all feature advanced CFM International LEAP-1A engines.
The strategic transaction builds directly upon an established partnership between BOC Aviation and Colombian flag carrier Avianca. Under the purchase-and-lease framework, the lessor provides essential pre-delivery payment financing to support the airline’s future fleet expansion. The agreement aligns with the broader growth strategy of Abra Group, the parent company of Avianca, as it works to optimize airline operations and expand network connectivity across Latin America.
By securing aircraft scheduled for 2029 delivery, BOC Aviation reinforces its position as a primary financier of next-generation narrowbody aircraft. The financing structure allows Avianca to lock in critical fleet expansion slots well in advance while enabling BOC Aviation to expand its portfolio of high-demand, single-aisle commercial jets.
The Airbus A320neo delivers significant fuel burn reductions and reduced operational emissions compared to legacy narrowbody predecessors. Paired with CFM International LEAP-1A engines, the aircraft provides enhanced flight range, lower noise footprints, and optimized operating economics for high-density passenger routes across North and South America.
“We are delighted to build on our strong relationship to support Avianca‘s growing business,” said Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of BOC Aviation. “As aircraft production ramps up, pre-delivery payment financing is becoming increasingly important for our airline customers. Our access to significant liquidity enables us to support our customers with transactions of this nature and add to our fleet of latest technology A320neos.”
The 12-aircraft acquisition positions Avianca to meet projected long-term air travel demand across the Latin American aviation sector over the coming decade. By integrating modern aircraft into its operating structure, the airline ensures continuous fleet modernization while maintaining robust operational margins.
This major lease deal reinforces the commercial partnership between BOC Aviation and Avianca while supporting broader fleet renewal initiatives across the region. Deploying modern Airbus A320neo jets allows operators to reduce operational costs and environmental impact across primary flight networks. As delivery approaches in 2029, the transaction highlights strong institutional confidence in long-term air transport growth.
