A Memorandum of
Understanding for the EC225s was signed today during the Langkawi Maritime
& Aerospace Exhibition by company officials, witnessed by Malaysian
Minister of Defense, YB Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The acquisition is part of Weststar’s strategy to build up an
extensive helicopter fleet to be deployed around the world. Targeting
to begin operating their new helicopters in 2014, the EC225s will strengthen
their position in the global oil and gas market, as the aircraft’s
advanced technology and high performance has made it the helicopter
of choice for oil and gas missions worldwide.
“We are delighted that Weststar has selected Eurocopter to provide
for their heavy helicopter needs in their expansion plans,” said
Olivier Lambert, Eurocopter’s Senior Vice President for Sales
and Customer Relations. “It is great to see an ambitious and impressive
oil and gas operator such as Weststar extending its fleet with the leading
heavy aircraft in its category after two years of operations with medium
helicopters. Eurocopter is proud to accompany Weststar on its expansion
journey with our state-of-the-art EC225.”
Formed in April 2003, Weststar Aviation Services provides general aviation
charter services, personal transport, aerial utility services and offshore
transport. A member of the Weststar Group, this company’s current
Eurocopter fleet of seven rotary-wing aircraft includes a mix of light-single,
light-twin and medium-twin helicopters.
“The EC225 is a well-recognized helicopter worldwide for oil and
gas operations. This addition will definitely enhance Weststar’s
current venture into international markets such as the Middle East,
Africa and South America,” explained Tan Sri Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim,
Weststar Group Managing Director.
Integrating Eurocopter’s latest technological innovations, the
EC225 can seat up to 19 passengers and excels in offering high payload,
long range coverage and fast cruise speed. Deployed worldwide for civil
and military search and rescue, as well as offshore and passenger transport
missions, the Super Puma/Cougar family has logged more than 4.6 million
flight hours in operations around the globe.