In a remarkable achievement, the international legal powerhouse White & Case LLP, in collaboration with the renowned airline JetBlue, has been honored with the "Structured Finance Deal of the Year" accolade at the Airline Economics’ 2025 Aviation 100 Global Leaders Awards. This prestigious recognition highlights their successful execution of a significant financial transaction involving substantial secured notes and term loans backed by loyalty assets.
The award-winning deal involved an intricate financial arrangement where White & Case provided strategic counsel to JetBlue Airways Corporation and its loyalty program entity. The firm facilitated the issuance of a considerable amount of senior secured notes with a fixed interest rate, maturing in 2031. Concurrently, they arranged for a sizable senior secured term loan, both of which were underpinned by the valuable loyalty assets of the airline. This innovative financing structure exemplifies the ingenuity and expertise brought to bear in the aviation finance sector.
This financial maneuver not only demonstrates the strength and resilience of JetBlue's loyalty program but also underscores the pivotal role that structured finance plays in supporting the operational and financial objectives of airlines. By leveraging these assets effectively, JetBlue has secured substantial capital that can be utilized for various strategic initiatives, enhancing its competitive position in the industry.
The successful completion of this complex transaction reflects the collaborative efforts between White & Case and JetBlue, showcasing their ability to navigate the intricacies of aviation finance. This milestone further solidifies their reputation as leaders in structuring innovative financial solutions that meet the evolving needs of the aviation sector.