Groupe BPCE finances one new Airbus aircraft for Aircalin

Groupe BPCE banks in partnership with Balthazar Finance have supported Aircalin, New Caledonia’s international airline, in a major stage of its development: financing its first Airbus A350-900, designed to operate the Noumea-Bangkok-Paris route.

By combining bank loans, credit insurance, equity, and State support through overseas tax exemptions, this financing is achieved without drawing on New Caledonia’s public finances. The credit facility is provided by a consortium of banks led by Groupe BPCE – Natixis CIB (acting as lead arranger), alongside Banque Calédonienne d’Investissement (BCI), Banque de Nouvelle-Calédonie (BNC), BRED Banque Populaire, and CIC CIB. The transaction benefits from a Balthazar Finance insurance policy, arranged by Marsh and underwritten by a group of six insurers.

Aircalin will take delivery of the Airbus A350-900 in December 2026. This next-generation aircraft will significantly boost the airline’s capacity and technological capabilities. Compared to the Airbus A330neo currently operated on Aircalin’s long-haul routes, this new model increases cargo and passenger capacity by 15%, reduces fuel consumption by 25%, extends flight range, and enhances passenger comfort features.

This operation will strengthen the service between New Caledonia, the Pacific region, Asia and Europe, thereby driving regional connectivity and stimulating economic and tourism development.