LCI delivers first AW139 to Westpac Rescue

Lease Corporation International (LCI) have delivered the first of four AW139 helicopters to Australia’s Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

The company will begin training its pilots, rescue and medical crews in June, when the helicopter arrives at its new Newcastle, New South Wales homebase.

The aircraft will also be outfitted with all the equipment needed for its Emergency Medical Services (EMS) role and is expected to enter into service with NSW Ambulance during the first quarter of 2017.

“After many years of planning, we are all extremely happy to receive the first of our new AW139 helicopters for deployment across the region.” said Richard Jones, General Manager, Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, “This first delivery of four helicopters in our contract with LCI is both progress in our story and a boost for our community-based service. The leasing arrangement we have in place with LCI for these AW139 helicopters will enable us to provide the highest level of service and care to the people of New South Wales.”

The helicopter and all subsequently fitted EMS equipment has been financed by Westpac Banking Corporation under a 10-year tripartite agreement.

“LCI is proud to be supporting the brave men and women of Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service who risk their lives to save others in emergency situations.” said Crispin Maunder, executive chairman, LCI, “This first delivery is a further step in the transformative upgrade process for the service as it deploys the latest helicopter technology in critical care missions. By the end of this year LCI will lease ten AW139 helicopters for aeromedical operations in Australia which highlights the important role that leasing has in this market.”