Japan’s Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing announced it will acquire Macquarie Rotorcraft, the UK-based helicopter leasing business of financial giant Macquarie’s asset management arm. SMFL LCI Helicopters, SMFL’s helicopter-leasing joint venture with LCI Investment, will buy the Macquarie unit which has a fleet of about 120 leased aircraft. The companies plan to expand the aircraft fleet to about 310, with LCI Investment, the aerospace unit of Libra Group, at the helm of the combined business.
The Nikkei had reported the deal earlier valuing it at slightly over $1 billion. The unit of Japan’s Sumitomo did not provide financial details in the statement. Libra, which was founded in 2003, has completed over $15 billion of transport transactions through its aviation and maritime businesses and is a leading player in aviation leasing via its LCI unit.
The Sumitomo unit said in its statement that “we aim to further expand our business and customer bases and establish a strong position in the helicopter leasing industry where demand is expected to grow.”
Rotortrade report highlights a growing supply-demand imbalance
Rotortrade has released its Global Helicopter Market Report 2024-2025, offering an in-depth analysis of industry trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the global rotorcraft sector. This year’s report highlights a growing supply-demand imbalance, geopolitical influences, sustainability imperatives, and shifting regional market dynamics.
The Rotortrade Global Helicopter Market Report 2024-2025 identifies several critical trends impacting the industry:
- Helicopter Shortage Worsening – OEM production constraints, supply chain disruptions, and aging fleets are intensifying market pressures (presenting an opportunity for the pre-owned market).
- Regional Market Shifts – While North America and Europe remain dominant, Asia, Africa, and Latin America are emerging as key growth markets.
- Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Outlook – The rise of eVTOLs and hybrid-electric aircraft is expected to complement, rather than replace, traditional helicopters in the near to mid-term.
- Sustainability Challenges – The industry is moving toward Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and hybrid-electric solutions, but regulatory uncertainties and cost barriers remain.
“The helicopter industry is at a turning point, with demand far outpacing supply,” said Philippe Lubrano, CEO of Rotortrade. “OEM production constraints and rising costs have driven a shift in market dynamics, making the pre-owned segment more critical than ever. Rotortrade is at the forefront of providing agile solutions to meet these demands through our global network and strategic partnerships.”
As the global helicopter market evolves, Rotortrade remains committed to offering data-driven insights, innovative financing solutions, and expanded fleet options to industry stakeholders. The Rotortrade Global Helicopter Market Report 2024-2025 is now available for download here: www.rotortrade.com.
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