The 2023 Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) witnessed a significant milestone today as Weststar Aviation Services and Leonardo inked a deal for the acquisition of five AW139 helicopters and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the AW609 maturity program. The signing ceremony was graced by the esteemed presence of several high-profile dignitaries, underscoring the importance of this collaboration in advancing aviation technology and capabilities.
Among the distinguished attendees were Prime Minister YAB Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Transport Minister YB Loke Siew Fook, Italian Ambassador to Malaysia H.E. Massimo Rustico, Vice Minister of Transport Italy Mr. Edoardo Rixi, and Chief Minister of Melaka YAB Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. Their presence highlighted the strategic significance of this partnership and the strong bilateral relations between Malaysia and Italy.
The official signing was carried out by Mr. Syed Azni Syed Azman, Executive Director of Weststar Aviation Services, representing Weststar, and Mr. Carlo Gualdaroni, Chief Business Officer of Leonardo, representing Leonardo. This agreement marks a pivotal step forward in enhancing the aviation capabilities of both companies and addressing the growing needs of the aviation sector.
In addition to the key signatories, the ceremony was also attended by prominent figures from Weststar Aviation Services, including the Group Managing Director of The Weststar Group, Tan Sri Dr. Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim, Chief Executive Officer Datuk Wan Hasmar Azim Wan Hassan, and Chief Business Development Officer Datuk Anuar Noordin. Their participation underscored the collective leadership and vision driving this collaboration.
Italian Ambassador H.E. Massimo Rustico expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting that it not only strengthens ties between Malaysia and Italy but also paves the way for future joint ventures in technology and industry. Vice Minister of Transport Italy Mr. Edoardo Rixi also commended the partnership, recognizing its potential to drive significant advancements in vertical flight technology. The signing of the acquisition agreement for the AW139 helicopters and the MOU for the AW609 maturity program is a significant achievement for both Weststar Aviation Services and Leonardo. The AW139 helicopters are renowned for their versatility, reliability, and advanced technology, making them a valuable addition to Weststar’s fleet. Meanwhile, the AW609 tiltrotor program represents a leap forward in aviation innovation, promising enhanced performance and new operational capabilities.
