International law firm Richards Butler in association with Reed Smith, alongside Run Ming Law Office, has advised The Export-Import Bank of China (C-EXIM) on a US$230 million term loan facility to AerDragon Aviation Partners Limited (AerDragon) for its purchase of six Airbus 320 aircraft including the first China-assembled Airbus Aircraft. 

The first delivery was successfully completed on 22 June 2009 with AerDragon taking title and immediately leasing the aircraft to Sichuan Airlines Co. Ltd.

The Richards Butler in association with Reed Smith Hong Kong team was led by partner Emma Casdagli and the Run Ming team was led by Beijing-based senior partner Liu Yi.

Emma Casdagli, partner at Richards Butler in association with Reed Smith, commented:
"We were delighted to be asked to act for The Export-Import Bank of China in such a landmark transaction and to be involved in the first of, no doubt many, Tianjin deliveries."

AerDragon Aviation Partners Limited was advised by Clifford Chance Singapore office. 

ENDS

Note to Editors:

About Reed Smith
Reed Smith is one of the 15 largest law firms in the world, with nearly 1,700 lawyers in offices across Asia, Europe and the Middle East and the United States.  We advise many of the world’s leading organisations on cross-border transactions, complex dispute resolution and regulatory matters.

About our Asian Offices
Richards Butler Hong Kong commenced practice in 1980 and is one of the largest law firms in Hong Kong.  The firm enjoys a market leading position, having benefited from early entry into the market, and has led the way on many significant matters in Asia.  The Hong Kong office joined forces with Reed Smith in January 2008. The combined firm has a leading practice in Greater China, with more than 130 lawyers in Hong Kong, a growing office in Beijing and plans to open an office in Shanghai.  Our Asian Practice is truly international in scope, covering the complete range of specializations including banking and finance, aviation, shipping, project financing, commodities advice, company and commercial work, real estate, corporate and regulatory, general commercial litigation, international trade, arbitration and intellectual property.   
 
For further information please visit www.reedsmith.com or contact:

Emma Casdagli, Partner (Hong Kong), on +852 2810 8008
Jeyda Star, Senior Branding & Communications Executive, on +44 20 3116 2571