Irish-based SMBC bounces back from Covid with Boeing Max jets tailored for low-cost carriers 

Leasing giant expects to be a major beneficiary of the recovery, with a renewed focus on planes configured for low-cost travel

Ireland-based SMBC Aviation — the world's fifth or sixth largest aircraft leasing firm as measured by fleet size — said it is preparing for recovery by bolstering its huge balance sheet and by buying more Boeing 737 Max planes for low-cost carriers as it attempts to put the Covid year behind it. 

The huge losses chalked up by airlines and airports since the onset of the Covid crisis showed the industry was among the worst hit in the past year.