Leonardo has unveiled expanded growth in the presence of the AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopter in Australia at Avalon, securing orders for a total of six aircraft from three distinct primary operators: Babcock Australasia (Babcock), RACQ CQ Rescue (CQ Rescue), and StarFlight Australia. All six helicopters are slated for delivery from Leonardo’s Vergiate final assembly facility in Italy throughout 2024.
The two AW139 models ordered by Babcock will execute a variety of HEMS, Search and Rescue, and Inter-Hospital Patient Transport missions for a confidential client. These AW139 helicopters are expected to be delivered in 2024 and will begin operations in the latter half of the year, following specialized mission customization conducted locally. The new aircraft will encompass a comprehensive array of bespoke equipment including: 4-axis DAFCS (Digital Automatic Flight Control System) autopilot enhanced with Hover Mode; cutting-edge Avionic Phase 8; TCAS II (Traffic Collision Avoidance System); searchlight; camera; wire cutter; and rescue hoist, among other features. This latest order will elevate Babcock’s AW139 fleet to nine, complementing their existing seven AW139s in Australia serving Air Ambulance Victoria and RACQ CapRescue. Babcock’s Managing Director of Aviation & Critical Services, Peter Newington, remarked that increasing Babcock’s fleet of AW139 helicopters will augment operational capability across its contracts. “The AW139 aircraft delivers improved speed range and operational versatility which is vital for the extensive distances and challenging terrains throughout Australia.”
The two AW139 helicopters ordered by CQ Rescue will operate in the Mackay area of Central Queensland, performing both on-shore and off-shore EMS/SAR missions around the clock and in various weather conditions. The aircraft will showcase the latest advancements in product enhancement, technology, and mission capabilities, including state-of-the-art avionics with the latest night vision goggle compatibility, search and weather radar, and modern communication systems to support CQ Rescue’s broad mission requirements. With the new AW139s, CQ Rescue expects to double its flight range and achieve a 30% increase in mission speed compared to previous helicopters, enabling faster access to remote and rural communities. The AW139s are anticipated to be delivered in the second quarter of 2024 and will enter service before the year’s end. The CEO of CQ Rescue, Tim Healee, stated: “The AW139 is among the most dependable platforms in the market. The aeromedical services we provide and the nature of our missions are unique, often time-sensitive and covering large distances. The AW139s will significantly enhance our service offering, featuring next-generation avionics, exceptional performance, proven technology, and superior safety attributes.” He further added: “This remarkable acquisition of two cutting-edge helicopters is only feasible due to the generous support we receive from our community, corporate partners, and the Queensland Government.”
StarFlight Australia’s order comprises two AW139 units that will be utilized in Queensland and other regions of Australia, carrying out EMS/SAR missions in both on-shore and off-shore contexts. The new helicopters, equipped with all the latest avionics technology, patient care, and search and rescue functions, are expected to be delivered in late 2024 and will commence operations following local adaptations and modifications needed for the mission sector. This new acquisition will bring the total AW139s operated by StarFlight and LifeFlight to 15, with nine dedicated to EMS/SAR missions. StarFlight Australia CEO and Director, Ashley van de Velde, expressed: “StarFlight Australia is excited to have finalized the purchase of two new AW139 helicopters which will be employed for forthcoming operations. We already have several of these aircraft in our fleet and remain consistently impressed with their reliability, quality, and serviceability. The features, technology, dimensions, and comprehensive capabilities that the AW139s provide make these helicopters perfect for our needs. Their adaptability and readiness for different configurations also support us in delivering customized aviation solutions to our clients.”
With over 1,130 units operational for more than 280 clients in approximately 90 countries, and over 3.6 million flight hours logged since its certification in 2004, the AW139 has also demonstrated remarkable success in rescue and emergency missions. The AW139 offers exceptional capabilities, cutting-edge technology, and safety standards to meet rigorous demands from operators for operations in adverse conditions to maximize efficiency. This model features advanced avionics with sophisticated navigation and collision avoidance systems to enhance situational awareness and minimize pilot workload, unparalleled speed, power margins, and overall performance; the most spacious cabin in its category allowing for high modularity for quick reconfiguration; an exclusive 60+ minute run-dry capable main gearbox for improved reliability and safety; and up to 1000 certified kits.
