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

The helicopter will support search and rescue, firefighting and emergency response operations in Malaysia.

By SafarSamachar Desk8 Nov 2026, 3:42 am IST

Illustration

Illustration: SafarSamachar Pix Desk, created with AI assistance. Not a photograph of the event.

Key facts at a glance

1Weststar Aviation delivered the first Leonardo AW139 helicopter to Malaysia’s Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM).
2The delivery is part of a three-year agreement to supply 28 helicopters to government agencies.
3The second AW139 for JBPM is scheduled to arrive by the end of November 2026.
4The concession model reduces upfront capital costs for the government.

Weststar Aviation has handed over the first Leonardo AW139 helicopter to Malaysia’s Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) under a Government Helicopter Leasing Concession Agreement. The aircraft will be used for search and rescue, firefighting, and emergency response operations.

A second AW139 is expected to arrive by the end of November 2026, with deployment planned for mid-December ahead of the monsoon season. The agreement includes the delivery of 28 helicopters to various government agencies over three years, aiming to enhance Malaysia’s emergency response capabilities through a long-term leasing model.

The delivery marks the first aircraft to enter service under the concession, signed in December 2024 and effective from June 2025. The model allows government agencies to access modern aviation assets without large upfront costs, with maintenance and support managed by the concessionaire.

Weststar’s CEO emphasized the importance of the helicopters in saving lives during emergencies, highlighting the company’s commitment to public-private partnerships in aviation.

What this means for travellers

This delivery improves Malaysia’s emergency response capabilities. Travellers in Malaysia may benefit from enhanced rescue and disaster relief operations during peak monsoon seasons.

Sources

AAsian Aviation

This brief was written with AI assistance from the reports listed above, following our accuracy rules; it has not yet been individually reviewed by an editor. Read our editorial policy.Rules and schedules change - confirm with the airline or embassy before you travel. Spotted an error? Tell us.