Airbus Helicopters Signs Order Deal With LCI And SMFL

LCI, an aviation company, and Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Company Limited (SMFL) have created a joint venture (JV) leasing operation. That JV has signed an order contract with Airbus Helicopters for up to 21 helicopters. It comprises a firm order for 14 with the option to purchase an additional 7. The order is a mix of light twin H145s, medium twin H160s and super medium H175 choppers. Per Airbus Helicopters, the order will be completed by 2028. The new helicopters joining the JV’s fleet will cater to various segments, like emergency medical services (EMS), search and rescue (SAR) and offshore energy. LCI and SMFL’s combined fleet presently consists of more than 40 Airbus helicopters deployed by 12 operators in over 10 countries. Those, too, serve the same sectors as mentioned above, all of which align with UN Sustainable Development Goals.