Hughes Hubbard represented Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras S.A., a start-up Brazilian airline founded by JetBlue founder David Neeleman, in the purchase and financing of its first three new Embraer ERJ-195 aircraft. The aircraft were delivered in December 2008, and the new airline began commercial operations on December 16.
Last year Hughes Hubbard represented Azul, Mr. Neeleman's fourth airline start-up, in connection with receiving private equity investments from several leading U.S. and Brazilian funds. Pequot Capital, Fundo Gavea, Companhia Bozano and other private equity funds invested more than US$150 million in this start-up airline, according to coverage in such publications as The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Latin Finance and Latin Lawyer.
Hughes Hubbard's team on the aircraft finance transactions was led by John Hoyns, while the firm's team handling the private equity investments was led by Kenneth Lefkowitz. They co-chair the firm's corporate department.
To register for Hughes Hubbard's 3rd annual seminar, "New Prospects for Latin America," March 26 at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Florida, click on the banner below.
For more information about Hughes Hubbard's practice in Latin America, please contact Eduardo Vidal in our New York office.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
