A new Leonardo AW139 has been delivered to central Queensland to boost the capability of RACQ Capricorn Rescue, operator Babcock announced this morning.
Babcock Australasia will operate, crew and maintain the aircraft from Capricorn Rescue's Rockhampton base.
The AW139 will provide an upgraded capability from the Bell 412EP helicopter, including improved range and speed, custom configuration of specialised on-board aeromedical equipment, and a cabin fitout suitable for aeromedical and SAR operations.
Babcock Australasia’s Managing Director – Aviation & Critical Services, Darren Moncrieff, said Babcock has been providing aircraft, experienced aircrews, and engineers to keep the service flying and saving lives since 2013.
“Capricorn Rescue trust us to deliver life-saving services and protect the community 24/7, 365 days a year, in all weather conditions,” Moncrieff said.
“Our aircrews are highly trained, highly skilled, and highly professional with specialist skills to safely deliver critical services including winching, search and rescue, fast rope operations, and night vision capability.
“Babcock and Capricorn Rescue work as an integrated team assisting the doctors and paramedics to transfer patients and retrieve patients or people being rescued. We respond to major trauma incidents and life-threatening medical emergencies on roads, stations, mines, and gas sites."
Capricorn Rescue and Babcock crews completed 449 missions in 2020, representing 647 flying hours. Ther service covers an area of 350,000 square kilometers and a population of around 300,000 Queenslanders.