Singapore Aircraft Leasing Enterprise (SALE) has finalised the lease of one A320 aircraft to Egyptian carrier Lotus Air. The aircraft, which was manufactured in 2001, was handed over to the airline in Bordeaux yesterday, following repainting in the carrier’s colours.

The aircraft joins an existing fleet of four A320 family aircraft at Lotus Air, which are operated on the carrier’s extensive charter network linking Cairo, Luxor and Egyptian tourist destinations with cities across Europe, as well as to Lebanon. The aircraft is leased to the carrier for a period of two years.

Captain Ali Dashti at Lotus Air, said that the additional aircraft would meet continued strong demand of inbound tourism to Egypt throughout the year.

“Despite the recent problems affecting the tourism industry, Lotus Air has continued to record positive growth,” he said. “We are extremely pleased that SALE has been able to meet our requirements for additional capacity within a tight time frame and at competitive rates.”

Robert Martin, Managing Director of SALE, said that the Singapore-based lessor welcomed Lotus Air as its first customer from the North African region.

“SALE already has a strong presence in the Middle East and we are pleased to be now extending our reach into North Africa,” he said. “We look forward to playing a part in the ongoing success of Lotus Air.”

Established in 1993, SALE has swiftly grown to become one of the world’s leading aircraft lessors. The company currently has a portfolio of 40 modern aircraft, with another 32 on firm order from Airbus and Boeing for delivery through 2008. SALE has offices in Singapore, London, Washington D.C. and San Diego, California.

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For further information, please contact: Janice WONG
Tel: +65 6325 9517
e-mail: [email protected]

Visit the SALE website: www.saleleasing.com