Rotorcraft
SMFL Helicopters Becomes Industry’s Latest Lessor
Rotorcraft leasing company formed from merger of two existing entities
Airbus H145, H160 and H170 formation with SMFL livery
SMFL signed a firm order for 14 Airbus helicopters in 2024, to be delivered through 2028. This included H145s, H160s, and H175s. © SMFLH

SMFL Helicopters (SMFLH) has officially become the rotary-wing industry’s latest global lessor, following the merger of existing leasing companies LCI and Macquarie Rotorcraft. The integrated fleet size of some 290 aircraft is currently supporting 52 operators, and SMFLH intends to scale operations with the intent to become the market leader.

The merger was orchestrated by the Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Company (SMFL), following regulatory approval in November by the UK Competition and Markets Authority. Integration of both companies is currently ongoing, with SMFLH’s headquarters based in Dublin. Other regional offices are based in London and Singapore.