BOC Aviation has signed agreements for the lease of three new Embraer E190 aircraft to Air Astana. One aircraft is scheduled for delivery in second quarter 2013 and the other two in second quarter 2014. This deal marks the first time that BOC Aviation has worked with the flag carrier of Kazakhstan. Peter Foster, Air Astana’s president said, “Air Astana, IOSA registered, 4 Skytrax stars, best airline in Central Asia, has seen strong growth in traffic figures since commencing operations in 2002,” “We are pleased to partner with BOC Aviation in our network and fleet expansion plans.”
Robert Martin, BOC Aviation’s managing director and chief executive officer, added, “Kazakhstan is a resource rich country that is enjoying strong economic growth. We believe Air Astana, in its mission to be the leading airline of Central Asia and CIS, is strategically well positioned to benefit from this growth,” said “BOC Aviation is delighted to welcome Air Astana as a new customer of BOC Aviation and look forward to a long lasting relationship.”
BOC Aviation is an Asia-wide aircraft leasing company with a portfolio of 188 aircraft operated by airlines worldwide and another 63 aircraft on firm order. BOC Aviation is 100% owned by Bank of China, one of the largest banks in the world.