Natixis CIB and Viva Aerobus Complete Groundbreaking Aircraft Financing in Latin America

Natixis CIB and Viva Aerobus' Historic Financing Deal

In a significant financial advancement, Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking (CIB) has announced the successful financing of two Airbus A321 Neo aircraft for Viva Aerobus, showcasing the first French Optimized Lease in Latin America. This landmark deal not only enhances Viva Aerobus' fleet but also exemplifies the evolving landscape of aircraft financing in the region.

Viva Aerobus, headquartered in Monterrey, Mexico, operates a substantial fleet of 94 aircraft, deploying them strategically across nine bases. It serves a diverse range of 184 routes, primarily catering to passengers traveling within Mexico and across the United States. The integration of these A321 Neos into their operational arsenal is expected to bolster the airline's efficiency and service quality, further solidifying its position as a leading low-cost carrier.

The financing structure devised by Natixis CIB involved a French Optimized Lease approach, which was melded with a Commercial Loan, indicating a multifaceted funding strategy aimed at maximizing economic efficiency for the airline. Natixis not only acted as the Mandated Lead Arranger but also took on roles such as Structuring Agent, Facility Agent, Security Trustee, and Lender, showcasing their comprehensive involvement in ensuring the success of this project.

Christian Ramos, the CFO at Viva Aerobus, expressed enthusiasm about this innovative partnership with Natixis. He highlighted that this financing transaction signifies a pivotal moment for both the airline and the wider aviation industry in Latin America. “It’s an important milestone,” he remarked, indicating the significance of such financial endeavours that underscore Viva's commitment to innovative and cost-efficient solutions to boost its operations.

Moreover, Ciprian Rodriguez, the Fleet Executive Director at Viva, acknowledged that the incorporation of the French Optimized Lease aligns seamlessly with their disciplined fleet growth strategy. By minimizing fleet ownership costs, the airline can maintain its ultra-low-cost business model, essential for its competitive edge in the fast-paced airline market. Rodriguez also indicated a keen interest in continuing to explore opportunities in collaboration with Natixis to uncover value-driven financing solutions as the airline evolves.

Yevgeniya Levitin, the Head of Aviation Americas at Natixis CIB, voiced her satisfaction with this groundbreaking initiative. She mentioned, “We are delighted to support Viva Aerobus with this innovative and cost-efficient financing solution.” Levitin elaborated that this transaction marks a crucial milestone for Natixis CIB’s aviation division within the Americas, emphasizing the importance of such pioneering financial structures in the competitive airline sector.

Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking stands as a prominent global financial institution, providing an array of services including advisory, financing, corporate banking, and capital markets offerings. With a dedicated team functioning in approximately 30 countries, Natixis is committed to aligning its financial operations with a path toward carbon neutrality by 2050. This further demonstrates the institution’s dedication not just to financial services, but to sustainable practices that align with contemporary environmental goals.

In conclusion, the successful financing of aircraft for Viva Aerobus by Natixis CIB is an exemplary case of innovative financial strategies shaping the aviation industry in Latin America. As the airline sector continues to evolve, such partnerships pave the way forward, indicating a promising future for low-cost carriers that rely on adaptive and efficient financing solutions. With the first French Optimized Lease now realized in the region, both Natixis and Viva Aerobus stand poised to lead the charge in redefining aircraft financing norms in Latin America.