The Libra Group has announced the sale of its aircraft leasing subsidiary, LCI, to Japan's Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing (SMFL). Founded in 2004, LCI has established itself as one of the leading specialized aircraft lessors globally, having completed transactions exceeding $12 billion in commercial aircraft and helicopters. This sale follows LCI's recent acquisition of Macquarie Rotorcraft Limited for over $1 billion, which positioned LCI as the second-largest helicopter leasing company in the global market, with a fleet of 320 helicopters.

With this transaction, SMFL will acquire 100% ownership of LCI, after initially purchasing a 35% stake in the company earlier this year. The exit from LCI allows the Libra Group, controlled by the Logothetis family, to focus on its other aviation endeavors through its subsidiary Space Leasing International (SLI). The group's future operations will particularly target advanced air mobility sectors, including the development of electric and hybrid aircraft, which reflects a growing trend in the aviation industry toward sustainability and innovation.

This sale is significant as it not only consolidates SMFL's foothold in the global aviation leasing sector but also demonstrates the ongoing consolidation trend within the aircraft leasing industry. The shift towards advanced air mobility indicates a broader market transformation, positioning companies like SLI to capitalize on emerging technologies and the potential for new operational paradigms within aviation.