SMFL Helicopters (SMFLH), a new global rotorcraft lessor, has launched operations following the acquisition of LCI and Macquarie Rotorcraft Limited (MRL) by Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Company Limited (SMFL) through its subsidiary SMFL LCI Helicopters Limited. The platform combines the fleets, customer bases, and expertise of both entities, managing approximately 290 aircraft across six continents for 52 operators.
Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, with offices in Limerick, London, and Singapore, SMFLH deploys latest-generation helicopters from manufacturers including Airbus, Leonardo, Sikorsky, and Bell Textron. These support sectors such as emergency medical services, search and rescue, offshore energy, and utility missions. John Petkovic, former CEO of Macquarie Rotorcraft, serves as CEO designate, pending formal protocols and relocation to Dublin later in 2026.
The launch follows UK Competition and Markets Authority approval in November 2025 for SMFL LCI’s acquisition of MRL, acquired by SMFL in May 2025. Integration of LCI and MRL is ongoing. Shinichiro Watanabe, SMFL senior managing executive officer, stated the move consolidates sector expertise and operational excellence to establish a leading position in helicopter leasing.
Petkovic noted, “The launch of SMFL Helicopters creates a single, global platform with the scale, strength and efficiency to be a long-term partner to operators and end users worldwide.” The lessor emphasizes flexible lease structures, a global support network, and focus on disciplined fleet growth without altering prior strategic directions. SMFLH targets medium- to long-term leadership in the industry by 2030 through portfolio expansion in mission-critical operations.