Weststar Aviation Sdn Bhd, has delivered a AW139 the first aircraft in a helicopter leasing concession agreement it has with the government of Malaysia which will see the government lease 28 helicopters from Weststar for a term of 15 years. While the aircraft in the agreement are destined for service with a number of government agencies, the first aircraft, together with a second AW139, due for delivery later this month are both expected to be operational with the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) by mid December in time for the peak monsoon season.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Chief executive Officer of Weststar Aviation General Tan Sri Muhammad Ismail Jamaluddin, said the delivery reflected the Group’s commitment to supporting the Government’s efforts to strengthen the operational capabilities of its agencies through strategic public-private partnerships.
“The Government’s trust in Weststar is not merely a contractual commitment, it is a responsibility that we take very seriously. We recognise that these helicopters are more than aviation assets. They are essential operational resources that can make a critical difference when lives are at stake. From the signing of the agreement to the operational deployment of the first helicopter in approximately 11 months, this achievement reflects the collective commitment and close coordination between the Government, JBPM, Leonardo Helicopters and our teams at Weststar”.
With the first aircraft in service Weststar says its focus has now shifted to the on time service entry for the second and subsequent aircraft, under the terms of the agreement all 28 aircraft are due to be in service by the end of 2028.
Image: Weststar
