Maples Group Advises Sculptor on US$415.5 Million ABS

The Maples Group’s multidisciplinary global Asset Finance team provided Cayman Islands and Irish legal advice to Sculptor, as well as Cayman Islands listing agent services and share trustee services. The team worked closely with Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, lead counsel to Sculptor.

The legal team included Anthony Philp, co-head of the Cayman Islands Asset Finance team; Jonathon Meloy, head of the Cayman Islands Finance practice; and associates Sorcha O’Keefe, Jonathan Brown and Grace Grant from the Cayman Islands office, as well as partner Mary O’Neill and associate Evan Lewis from the Ireland office. The Cayman Islands Fiduciary team, including Senior Vice President Phillip Hinds, also supported the transaction in connection with the provision of share trustee services.

The transaction contains Class A and Class B notes, which are listed on the Cayman Islands Stock Exchange. The proceeds will be used to acquire a portfolio of 23 commercial aircraft on lease to 16 airlines located in 15 jurisdictions.

Following successful completion of Eclipse 2026-1, the Maples Group’s global Asset Finance team has advised on five completed ABS transactions in 2026 to date, reflecting continued momentum in the aviation securitisation market and the team’s market-leading position in this space.

“Our global Asset Finance team is pleased to have supported Sculptor on this innovative aircraft lease ABS issuance. The deal reflects Sculptor’s long-term strategic commitment to the aviation finance market and continued investor confidence in the space,” commented Anthony Philp.

From an international network of 15 offices, the Maples Group is a leader in the aircraft ABS market, acting for over 50% of lessors in the industry. The Maples Group has unmatched expertise and provides legal advice on the laws of the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Ireland, Jersey and Luxembourg as well as managing agent services, Delaware co-issuer services, share trustee services, independent directorship and management services, entity formation and administration services and stock exchange listings.

Building on this market-leading platform, the Maples Group has launched a pioneering technology partnership with leading software platform Aerlytix, set to transform aviation ABS management by adding value through unparalleled efficiency, accuracy and transparency.