Weststar delivers first leased AW139 to Malaysia’s fire department
The delivery forms part of a 28-helicopter government programme that minister Nga Kor Ming said could save about RM3 billion.
Malaysia’s Fire and Rescue Department received its first Leonardo AW139 from Weststar Aviation Sdn Bhd at a November 4 handover in Subang. Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming officiated at the event, which marked a delivery under the government’s helicopter leasing programme.
The aircraft is ready to enter service after Weststar and the department finished the pre-delivery inspection and final acceptance test. Its assignments will range from firefighting and search-and-rescue missions to medical evacuations, patient transport and emergency logistics.
Another AW139 designated for the department is due to reach Malaysia by the end of November. The target for putting it into operation is mid-December, before the monsoon season reaches its peak.
The government and Weststar signed the concession in December 2024, with the agreement taking effect on June 16, 2025. Weststar is required to supply 28 helicopters within three years for agencies whose responsibilities include defence, security, law enforcement and emergency response.
Nga put the expected savings from leasing rather than conventional procurement at about RM3 billion. Weststar’s obligations over the 15-year concession include maintenance and related support, reducing agencies’ direct responsibility for upkeep and allowing them to obtain aircraft without substantial initial capital spending.
