LCI has delivered two new AW139s to Babcock Australasia for emergency medical services operations across the Torres Strait and the Northern Peninsula of Queensland, Australia.

The aircraft were delivered to Australia to begin modification for their EMS role have been placed in LCI’s joint venture with SMFL: SMFL LCI Helicopters Limited. The aircraft will be based at Horn Island and support Babcock’s operations for the Queensland Government, including the delivery of 24/7 EMS and SAR services across the Torres Strait.

The AW139s are fitted with a power loading stretcher system, a winch and an Electro Optic/Infra-Red Camera for enhanced SAR, EMS and other lifesaving work within the remote island community.

Accomplished Torres Strait Islander artist, Alick Tipoti, has designed two dramatic liveries for the helicopters which will be instantly recognizable to the Torres Strait Islander communities of North Queensland that they will serve.  Torres Strait Islander Peoples use the word ‘Kuyup’ in reference to the rescue helicopter, which translates to dragonfly.  The overall design is known as ‘Kuyupaw Yabu’, which translates to the flight path of the dragonfly, and incorporates elements such as migrating birds, sea spirits, reefs and lagoons.  The Kuyup (dragonfly) is central to the design.

Nigel Leishman, Chief Commercial Officer of LCI, says: “We are delighted to be providing two new AW139 helicopters, equipped with latest equipment for EMS and other mission critical services, to our longstanding partner Babcock. These state-of-the-art helicopters will improve the speed, range and capability of its operations in Queensland.

“The striking Kuyupaw Yabu liveries will boost the visibility of emergency operations across remote communities in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula, and we are proud to have co-sponsored the artwork alongside Babcock and Leonardo.”