Macquarie Group announced the launch of Macquarie Rotorcraft Leasing, a helicopter operating leasing business that will focus on the growing, worldwide demand for commercial helicopters servicing offshore oil and gas, medical transport, search and rescue, and the executive transport markets.

“We are pleased to be able to build upon the experience and success of Macquarie’s commercial aviation and rail leasing business with the launch of this new business,” said Stephen Cook, global head of Transportation Finance, Macquarie Group. “We believe this market sector is a logical and attractive extension of our current leasing offerings.”

As part of the formation, Macquarie also announced the following executive appointments:

. Jeffrey Pino has been appointed chief executive officer. Pino is a 35-year veteran of the helicopter business and most recently served as president of Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.

. James Clarke joins as chief operating officer. Clarke has spent his career in the aviation finance and leasing space, and most recently served as chief financial officer of Air Lease Corporation.

. Steve Estill will serve as chief marketing officer. Estill has held marketing and sales positions at Bell Helicopter, Textron and Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation.

. Greg A’slinger has been named chief technical officer. A’slinger is the former owner of Uniflight, an authorized Bell Helicopter and Eurocopter customer service facility.

“I am excited to lead this new venture, one that will bring liquidity and financial flexibility to commercial customers,” said Jeffrey Pino, CEO of Macquarie Rotorcraft Leasing. “With the resources of Macquarie and what I believe is the strongest helicopter management team in the business, we are well positioned to provide competitive proposals to customers worldwide and we look forward to renewing those relationships with this platform.”

UBS Investment Bank acted as sole financial adviser to Jeff Pino and Jim Clarke.