Leasing group LCI said it plans to deliver a pair of new Leonardo AW139 helicopters to Babcock’s operation in Australia in early 2024. Valued at more than $40 million, the two helicopters will perform emergency medical service (EMS) flights under a long-term lease.
The AW139 can carry up to 15 passengers in its spacious cabin, which can be configured for other roles. Italian manufacturer Leonardo (Booth B1005) has now delivered more than 1,100 units. LCI (Booth B2408) already has 16 AW139s on lease with operators in Australia for EMS and offshore support services.
Ireland-based LCI’s lease portfolio includes 80 Leonardo helicopters operating in 22 countries worldwide. In addition to EMS and offshore roles, the aircraft serve in search and rescue operations.
“LCI is a longstanding, flexible, and proven partner which has supported our burgeoning helicopter operations across the globe for a decade,” said Peter Newington, managing director of aviation and critical services with Babcock Australasia. “We’re confident they will help us deliver an expanded, outstanding level of EMS provision in Australia.”
The leasing group also is exploring the potential to add eVTOL aircraft to its portfolio. It has signed provisional purchase agreements with Beta Technologies for its Alia 250 all-electric vehicle and with Elroy Air for its Chaparral autonomous cargo aircraft.
