




01 Mar 2025
#1 March 2025: China Aviation Industry Newsletter
BOC Aviation Signs Lease Agreement With Arajet For Five Boeing 737-8 Aircraft
BOC Aviation has finalised a deal to acquire five Boeing 737-8 aircraft from Boeing and lease them to Arajet under a long-term agreement. These aircraft, powered by CFM LEAP-1B engines, are slated for delivery in 2026 and 2027. BOC Aviation CEO and Managing Director Steven Townend highlighted the significance of this transaction in strengthening their partnership with Arajet while continuing to expand their order book with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft.
Boeing Delivers 100th 767-300BCF to SF Airlines at GAMECO
Boeing has reached a significant milestone with the delivery of its 100th converted 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) to SF Airlines, the largest global operator of this aircraft type. The handover, celebrated at Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Company Limited (GAMECO), marks the continued reliability and importance of the 767-300BCF in SF Airlines' fleet. Since its introduction in 2016, the aircraft has played a vital role in the airline’s expansion, demonstrating high performance across domestic and international routes.
Vietnam Airlines Introduces Direct Flight Between Ho Chi Minh City and Beijing
Vietnam Airlines is set to launch a direct flight service between Ho Chi Minh City and Beijing, commencing on March 30th. Operating five times a week with Airbus A321neo aircraft, this new route is introduced to accommodate the increasing demand for air travel between Vietnam and China. The addition raises the total number of weekly flights between the two nations to 40, highlighting the growing connectivity and passenger traffic in the region.
Acumen’s Take
On BOC Aviation’s Lease Agreement with Arajet
As a trusted partner in aircraft asset management, Acumen Aviation recognises the value of strategic leasing agreements in fleet expansion. This transaction between BOC Aviation and Arajet aligns with industry trends focusing on sustainability and fuel efficiency. With Acumen’s extensive expertise in aircraft lease management and advisory services, such deals reinforce the importance of optimising leasing strategies to drive operational efficiency and long-term growth.
On Boeing’s Delivery of the 100th 767-300BCF to SF Airlines
Freighter conversions have become a crucial segment in the aviation sector, and the 100th delivery of the Boeing 767-300BCF underscores the growing demand for efficient cargo solutions. Acumen Aviation’s experience in aircraft transitions, asset management, and digital solutions places it at the forefront of supporting airlines and lessors in managing converted freighters, ensuring maximum operational reliability and fleet optimisation.
On Vietnam Airlines’ New Direct Flight Route
With global travel demand rising, the introduction of new routes highlights the critical role of strategic network expansion. Vietnam Airlines’ latest service between Ho Chi Minh City and Beijing demonstrates the increasing connectivity between key markets. Acumen Aviation’s expertise in fleet planning and market insights enables airlines to make informed decisions when expanding their networks, ensuring sustainable growth and operational excellence.
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