LCI returns to fixed wing leasing market
Airbus A330 acquisition marks re-entry into fixed wing leasing market
LCI, the Libra Group’s leading aviation leasing company, has re-entered the fixed wing market with the acquisition of an Airbus A330-300 commercial aircraft.
This latest investment programme builds upon LCI’s 17-year track record in the fixed wing market during which it has carried out more than 120 passenger and freighter aircraft transactions worth over US$7 billion.
LCI’s long-held fixed wing strategy of undertaking aircraft investments timed with market cycles includes its US$1 billion fleet divestment in 2007, and its US$4.8 billion fleet investment and divestment cycles running from 2008 to 2020.
Deal origination, technical management, and ongoing lease management will all be handled in-house via LCI’s full-service leasing, management and investment platform.
The 2013-build Airbus aircraft is powered by Rolls Royce Trent 700 engines. It was acquired by a joint venture between LCI and Marathon Asset Management.
Michael Platt, Vice Chairman of LCI, says: “LCI prides itself on being a prime-mover in aviation leasing as demonstrated by strategic investments in widebody aircraft, freighters and helicopters, and this acquisition marks the latest chapter in that strategy. The A330-300 is a proven and popular aircraft with airlines across the globe, and a natural choice as the long-haul market recovers.”
“We are delighted to be working with the Marathon Asset Management on this acquisition. Our combined aviation and investment expertise will make this a strong and successful partnership.”
Joe Thorstenson, Managing Director of Aircraft Leasing at Marathon Asset Management, says: “As the airline industry continues to build back from the pandemic, we believe the range of compelling aircraft investment opportunities is growing quickly. We are delighted to be partnering with such an experienced lessor as LCI.”
The lessor has consistently grown in scale and value as it has diversified over time. LCI’s highly experienced management team have built strong relationships with manufacturers, customers and leading financial institutions, and has undertaken in excess of US$8 billion of transactions in the fixed-wing and helicopter markets since its inception in 2004.
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