LCI to deliver two new AW139 helicopters for lease to Babcock Australasia

LCI is set to deliver two new Leonardo AW139 helicopters on long-term lease to Babcock Australasia in Australia in early 2024. The aircraft, which are valued at over US$40 million, will be deployed by Babcock on mission critical and socially responsible Emergency Medical Services operations.

The Leonardo AW139 combines flexibility, high performance, proven technologies, and exceptional safety features, and is the best-selling twin-engine helicopter in its class with more than 1,000 units in service worldwide. Boasting superior performance, advanced safety design features, and state-of-the-art avionics, the AW139 can carry up to 15 passengers in a spacious cabin, all with the best power reserve of any helicopter in its class.

LCI is a longstanding leasing partner for Babcock, providing helicopters for a wide variety of operational roles in markets across Australia and internationally. Australia is a major and important market for LCI, with 16 of its AW139 helicopters already on lease operating EMS and offshore support roles. 

Jaspal Jandu, CEO of LCI, commented: “The latest Leonardo AW139 is an innovative and versatile next generation helicopter, well proven across many mission types including emergency medical services. The aircraft type has one of the largest installed fleets in the world and LCI has invested significantly in the programme. Many of our AW139s are placed on lease within the Babcock Group and so naturally we are pleased with this incremental business with a long-standing partner.”

Peter Newington, Managing Director Aviation & Critical Services of Babcock Australasia, said: “LCI is a longstanding, flexible and proven partner which has supported our burgeoning helicopter operations across the globe for a decade. We’re confident they will help us deliver and expanded, outstanding level of EMS provision in Australia.”

LCI’s fleet currently includes 80 Leonardo helicopters in operation in 22 countries across the globe. Many are deployed on mission critical and socially responsible sectors such as EMS, Search and Rescue and offshore wind energy.