Azul S.A. Reports High Participation in Exchange Offer for 2028 Notes and Solicitation Results
On January 7, 2025, Azul S.A. announced the early participation results of its previously communicated exchange offer concerning its existing 11.930% Senior Secured First Out Notes due 2028. This move, executed through its subsidiary Azul Secured Finance LLP, allows eligible holders of these notes to exchange them for new notes of the same interest rate and maturity. The exchange offer, alongside a solicitation for consent regarding proposed amendments to the existing indenture, was detailed in a confidential memorandum provided to eligible participants on December 17, 2024.
By the early participation deadline, a staggering 99.6% of the total outstanding principal amount of the existing notes had been validly tendered for exchange—indicating robust engagement from the noteholders with the process. This high participation level has satisfied the minimum exchange condition required to consummate the offer, demonstrating the confidence in Azul's restructuring strategy.
Importantly, holders had until 5:00 PM New York City time on January 7, 2025, to withdraw their submissions; however, this deadline was not extended, securing the firm commitment from participants. Those who tendered their existing notes without withdrawal will receive the total early exchange consideration, a benefit that reflects Azul's efforts to incentivize participation further.
The solicitation for consents has also yielded favorable results. As of the early participation deadline, the company confirmed that the necessary consents had been obtained to implement the proposed amendments pertaining to the existing indenture. The alignment of these exchanges with the upcoming issuance of the New Notes signifies a pivotal moment for Azul in its financial strategizing.
Amendments to the terms of the exchange offer now enable eligible holders who submit their notes and consents after the early participation deadline but before the expiration deadline on January 15, 2025, to also receive the total early exchange consideration. This has been a strategic decision to further encourage participation, giving more holders an opportunity to engage in this restructuring offer.
The anticipated settlement date for the exchange offer is set for January 22, 2025. This is contingent on meeting specific conditions outlined in the offering memorandum and includes the receipt of existing notes representing at least 66.67% of the total amount outstanding. Significant care has been taken to ensure that the exchange process runs smoothly and efficiently, reflecting Azul's commitment to its financial evolution and stakeholder interests.
In the world of finance, such initiatives are crucial for companies to optimize their capital structures and enhance liquidity. Azul S.A., already the leading airline in Brazil by departures and destinations, is seizing this opportunity not just to restructure its debts, but also to potentially fortify its financial footing for future growth. With over 1,000 daily flights and a fleet of more than 180 aircraft, the airline has consistently been awarded for its performance, including being recognized as the most on-time airline globally by Cirium in 2022. These accolades position the company in a robust manner as it navigates this exchange offer.
Nevertheless, Azul cautions that the offering of new notes is not being publicly registered under U.S. securities laws or similar regulations in Brazil, and participation is limited to holders who meet specific eligibility criteria defined in their offering memorandum. Furthermore, this outline does not constitute an offer for any of the existing notes, and the firm advises interested parties to seek further guidance via the appropriate channels. Azul's latest initiatives reflect a larger trend in the aviation industry towards proactive financial realignment to face market challenges head-on, ensuring longevity and success in a competitive environment.