Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Emirates NBD has signed a $350 million aircraft financing deal with Emirates Airline to support the delivery of two Boeing 777-200LRF freighters, a statement from the bank said.
The landmark agreement marks Emirates NBD’s first dedicated freighter mortgage-style financing with the airline, secured after a competitive process. It reflects sectoral expertise of the bank’s aviation desk and its ability to provide tailored, large-scale aviation financing solutions. The transaction also aligns with the UAE’s economic diversification agenda and supports GDP growth.
For Emirates, this deal represents the first time it has used a direct, mortgage-style aircraft financing structure without relying on an offshore Special Purpose Company, signalling a strategic shift towards more streamlined approaches. The partnership also consolidates Emirates NBD’s role as a key financial partner in aviation while enabling the bank to expand its aircraft financing expertise.
Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at Emirates NBD, said: “This landmark financing for Emirates Airline demonstrates Emirates NBD's continued commitment to supporting the core sectors that drive the UAE's economic vision. We are pleased to close this transaction while contributing to the UAE’s growing standing as a global trade and logistics hub.”
Michael Doersam, Chief Financial & Group Services Officer of Emirates Group, added: “This milestone transaction with Emirates NBD represents our first financing secured against an aircraft with the bank, building on our established relationship and demonstrating confidence in our solid financial performance and profitable business model. This streamlined, cost-efficient solution provides greater operational control throughout the financing term, and our partnership establishes a precedent for future collaborations while supporting our fleet expansion.”
