Willie Walsh, IAG, chief executive officer, said, “This landmark agreement with BOC Aviation is important as it brings financial and operational flexibility to our fleet plans as we introduce new aircraft into IAG.”

Robert Martin, BOC Aviation managing director & chief executive officer, added, “Our first transaction with Iberia was for the purchase and leaseback of two A320 aircraft back in 1999,” “We are pleased to continue this long-term relationship via IAG with this significant transaction.  This deal highlights our ability to assist our airline customers at  important times by committing  to fund  large  numbers of  high  value aircraft,  which  is  one  of  the key factors that  distinguishes  BOC  Aviation  from  its competitors.”

BOC Aviation is an Asia-wide aircraft leasing company with a portfolio of 188 aircraft operated by airlines worldwide.  The Company has 63 aircraft on firm order and another eight on committed purchase and leasebacks for delivery through to 2014..BOC Aviation is 100% owned by Bank of China, one of the largest banks in the world.