Natixis CIB and Viva Aerobus complete first-ever French optimised lease financing in Latin America

In a landmark transaction for both aviation finance and the Latin American airline sector, Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking (Natixis CIB) has successfully closed the first French Optimised Lease financing in Latin America, supporting the acquisition of two Airbus A321neo aircraft by Viva Aerobus, Mexico’s leading ultra-low-cost carrier.

The deal marks a significant innovation in regional aviation finance, combining a French Optimised Lease structure with a commercial loan to deliver cost-effective, long-term fleet financing tailored to Viva Aerobus’ needs.

As Mandated Lead Arranger, Structuring Agent, Facility Agent, Security Trustee and Lender, Natixis CIB played a central role in delivering the complex and tax-efficient lease solution.

Christian Ramos, Chief Financial Officer at Viva, commented: “We are excited to partner with Natixis to close the first French Optimised Lease in the Latin America region, an important milestone for Viva and the industry.

“This transaction further deepens Viva’s commitment toward finding innovative and cost-efficient solutions.”

Ciprian Rodriguez, Fleet Executive Director at Viva, added, “The French Optimised Lease supports our disciplined fleet growth strategy, strengthening our ultra-low cost business model by reducing the ownership costs of our fleet.”

With a fleet of 94 aircraft and 184 routes across Mexico and the United States, Viva Aerobus continues to push for financial innovation to support its rapid growth and fleet modernisation.

For Natixis CIB, the transaction highlights its growing presence in aviation finance across the Americas.

Yevgeniya Levitin, Head of Aviation Americas at Natixis CIB, emphasised the broader implications of the deal:

“This transaction represents a significant milestone for both Natixis CIB’s aviation franchise in the Americas and Viva Aerobus, as it is the first French Optimised Lease completed for an airline in the Latin American region. We look forward to continuing to support our clients with this type of competitive financing solutions.”