Weststar delivers first AW139 to Malaysia’s JBPM for fire, rescue operations

Weststar Aviation has handed over to the government of Malaysia the first Leonardo AW139 helicopter for the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) under the Government Helicopter Leasing Concession Agreement. The delivery represents the first aircraft to enter operational service under the concession agreement signed between the Government of Malaysia and Weststar Aviation Sdn Bhd in December 2024, which came into effect on 16 June 2025. Under the agreement, Weststar will supply a total of 28 helicopters to various government agencies over a three-year period. The addition of two AW139 helicopters will further strengthen JBPM’s operational capabilities, supporting search and rescue (SAR), firefighting, medical evacuation, transportation of patients and remains, as well as the delivery of essential logistical assistance during emergencies and disasters. Achieving operational readiness approximately 11 months after the signing of the agreement underscores Weststar’s ability to mobilise resources, coordinate with multiple stakeholders and deliver mission-critical aviation assets within a structured timeframe. The AW139 has been configured to meet JBPM’s operational requirements and has successfully completed the Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) and Final Acceptance Test (FAT) conducted by the concessionaire and JBPM. The aircraft is now ready to support the department’s search and rescue, emergency response and disaster relief operations. Speaking at the 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.” The Government Helicopter Leasing Concession adopts a long-term leasing arrangement under which the provision, maintenance and support of the helicopters are undertaken by the concessionaire throughout the concession period. This model enables government agencies to access modern aviation assets while reducing the need for substantial upfront capital expenditure and placing long-term maintenance responsibilities within an integrated support arrangement. The concession will serve several government agencies, strengthening the country’s aviation capabilities across defence, security, law enforcement, firefighting and emergency response operations. The first JBPM AW139 also represents the beginning of a phased delivery programme. The second AW139 helicopter for JBPM is scheduled to arrive in Malaysia by the end of November 2026, with operational deployment targeted for mid-December 2026, ahead of the peak monsoon season. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]