Libra Group Sells LCI to SMFL; SLI to Lead Libra Group’s Aerospace Future

February 20, 2026

[February 20, 2026] — Libra Group, a global business group whose subsidiaries have assets and operations in nearly 60 countries, today announced the sale of its remaining shares in aviation lessor, LCI, to Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Co., Ltd. (SMFL) and will consolidate two decades of aerospace expertise under its aerospace subsidiary, SLI (formerly Space Leasing International).

With the transaction, SLI becomes Libra Group’s dedicated aerospace platform, stewarding a track record spanning over two decades of aviation innovation with a portfolio of traditional aviation assets and space infrastructure, as well as next-generation technologies, such as fully electric aircraft and autonomous drones.

Founded by Libra Group in 2004 with the acquisition of 21 commercial jets, LCI became a globally leading dedicated helicopter lessor, having completed over US$12 billion in commercial jet and helicopter transactions since inception. Since 2020, LCI and SMFL have built a fleet of approximately 320 helicopters that continue to serve mission-critical needs, including Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Search and Rescue (SAR), and offshore wind energy.

The second largest helicopter lessor in the world, following the acquisition in 2025 of Macquarie Rotorcraft by SMFL LCI Helicopters, LCI has a track record of navigating market cycles, anticipating customer needs, and creating innovative, flexible approaches to asset finance. Examples include investment in fixed-wing aircraft starting in 2004, ahead of the market boom, a landmark US$1 billion sale of 21 aircraft in 2007, a move into wide-body passenger and freighter aircraft in 2009, followed by a US$400 million order for a fleet of Leonardo helicopters in 2012 that remain in service today. LCI provides helicopter leasing services to operators, governments, and end users worldwide, maintaining a fleet of modern helicopters that are typically deployed in mission-critical and socially responsible sectors.

Following the sale of LCI, Libra Group will focus its 22 years of aerospace experience through SLI, which is broadening its portfolio, including pioneering efforts to lease and manage assets in the emerging advanced air mobility (AAM) and space sectors, encompassing satellites and ground-based infrastructure. As part of the agreement, SMFL and SLI have entered into a corporate agreement, which includes cooperation in the development, financing and deployment of a next generation air mobility platform, technologies and services in AAM.

“This is not an ending, but a new beginning,” said Adamantios Tomazos, Senior Executive Board Member at Libra Group. “LCI’s remarkable journey reflects the kind of forward-thinking and agility we aspire to now bring to SLI. With SLI, we are helping create the next chapter for the aerospace industry. We are grateful to our good friends at SMFL for their enduring collaboration and shared vision as we enter this exciting new chapter.”

“SLI was created to meet the moment — to serve the evolving needs of the aviation and space industries with flexible, future-ready leasing solutions,” said Praveen Vetrivel, CEO of SLI. “From advanced air mobility aircraft, to traditional aerospace assets, to space-based in-orbit assets and infrastructure, we are building a portfolio that will support the future of aerospace.”

SLI is actively expanding its portfolio and partnerships, with upcoming initiatives spanning traditional aviation and space assets, as well as frontier technologies across the aerospace industry.

About SLI

SLI is Libra Group’s aerospace subsidiary focused on advancing next-generation mobility through innovative asset ownership and leasing in the aviation and space sectors. SLI owns a growing portfolio of electric aircraft, autonomous aerial vehicles, and space-based infrastructure, and partners with operators and manufacturers to enable scalable, sustainable transportation solutions.

About Libra Group

Libra Group is a privately owned, global business group encompassing 20 businesses predominately focused on aerospace, renewable energy, maritime, real estate, hospitality, and diversified investments. With assets and operations in nearly 60 countries, the Group applies the strength of its global network and capabilities to deliver cross-sector insights and growth at scale. For more information, visit www.libra.com.

About SMFL

Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Company, Limited (SMFL) is a major Japanese leasing company jointly owned by Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMFG) and Sumitomo Corporation. It provides diverse leasing, installment sales, and financial services, with a significant global presence in aircraft leasing through its subsidiary, SMBC Aviation Capital (SMBC AC).

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