Swicorp, the diversified financial services firm operating through extensive offices in the Middle East and North Africa, announced on Wednesday it has extended its private equity portfolio of investments to aviation, by purchasing a strategic stake in Jordan Aviation (JATE), the leading aviation leasing company in the Middle East for an undisclosed sum. The purchase was made through Intaj Capital, Swicorp's $250 million private equity vehicle which focuses on sectors driven by growth in consumer demand within the MENA region. JATE, the leading aircraft wet leasing company in the Middle East, is the first privately owned airline awarded a Jordanian Air Operating Certificate and is one of the youngest airlines to have completed the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) in 2006, joining the World's leading airlines in their commitment to global safety and security management in aviation. JATE provides wet leasing services to regional and international clients, which consist in providing fully operational airplanes, including crews and maintenance. “The Middle East aviation market continues to be the fastest growing and most attractive market globally. In an environment where supply is tight and demand is experiencing steady growth, Jordan Aviation can position itself as a key link in the value chain and take advantage from such environment,” said Nabil Triki, managing director & head of private equity, Swicorp. “Our investment in Jordan Aviation will provide the company with the financial resources and strategic support required to drive further growth in the coming years”. Mohamed Khashman, president and CEO, JATE, said: “Over the past 10 years, we have successfully built a platform which is in a position today to develop into a world-class aviation leasing company. We are pleased to have selected Swicorp as our partner as we look to take the company to the next level”. “JATE has an excellent track record of growth and a strong commitment to customers and employees, which is consistent with Swicorp's values; this transaction is a compelling next step forward in JATE's evolution.” __
