Lease Corporation International and KKR Financial Holdings (KFN) announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which KFN has agreed to invest in excess of $100 million in LCI Helicopters Ltd, the helicopter leasing subsidiary of LCI, in exchange for a minority stake in LCIH’s common equity. The strategic investment will allow LCIH to grow its fleet significantly and advance its leadership position in the rapidly expanding helicopter leasing business.

“This transaction deepens our already significant commitment to the rotary wing sector of the aviation market,” said LCI CEO Michael Platt. “Our partnership with KKR Financial will provide us with future growth opportunities and further strengthen our position in the marketplace.”

A highly experienced aerospace leasing corporation founded in 2004, LCI entered the helicopter leasing business in February 2012 through LCIH and has since been very active, with a $400 million order for a fleet of modern, versatile AgustaWestland AW139, AW169 and AW189 helicopters. The helicopters are being delivered to LCIH over a five-year period and will be deployed to a range of offshore, search and rescue and other applications.

The company intends to expand its fleet significantly with orders from other leading helicopter manufacturers.

To read the entire Lease Corporation International news release click here.