SMFL acquires Macquarie Rotorcraft in helicopter leasing deal

Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing (SMFL) announced on Monday that its joint venture, SMFL LCI Helicopters, will acquire Macquarie Rotorcraft, the UK-based helicopter leasing division of Macquarie’s asset management arm. This strategic move marks a significant expansion in SMFL’s aviation leasing portfolio.

Macquarie Rotorcraft currently manages a fleet of approximately 120 leased aircraft. Following the acquisition, the companies aim to expand the fleet to around 310 aircraft, with LCI Investment, the aerospace subsidiary of Libra Group, leading the combined business.

The financial details of the deal were not disclosed in SMFL’s statement, but earlier reports from The Nikkei estimated the transaction value at just over US$1 billion.

Libra Group, established in 2003, has completed more than US$15 billion in transportation transactions, cementing itself as a major player in aviation and maritime leasing. Through its LCI division, Libra has played a pivotal role in helicopter leasing, a sector experiencing increasing demand for offshore energy, emergency medical services, and search and rescue operations.

This acquisition strengthens SMFL’s footprint in the global helicopter leasing market and aligns with its broader strategy to expand aviation-related investments. The combined fleet and expertise of SMFL LCI Helicopters are expected to enhance operational efficiency and market reach in the helicopter leasing industry.