LCI, an aviation company that is uniquely positioned across the helicopter, commercial fixed-wing and advanced air mobility sectors, has acquired a fleet of seven new Leonardo AW169 helicopters configured for emergency medical services (EMS).
The helicopters are being placed in LCI’s joint venture with SMFL: SMFL LCI Helicopters Limited. The joint venture has acquired the aircraft and will be leasing them to Babcock Canada (Babcock), a key player in engineering and critical support services. Babcock has been subcontracted by Ascent Helicopters to provide EMS operations across the province on behalf of British Columbia Emergency Health Services (BCEHS).
Jerry McLean, CEO of Babcock Canada, said: “Babcock Canada is delighted to work with LCI as we expand our aviation footprint into Western Canada. The Leonardo AW169 is a modern, reliable and mission-ready aircraft that will significantly enhance the critical services Ascent Helicopters will provide to the citizens of British Columbia.”
The first AW169 has already been delivered, with the remaining six scheduled for handover by January 2025. This agreement makes Ascent Helicopters the first operator to introduce the AW169 to Canada.
The AW169 helicopters are equipped with night vision goggles and state-of-the-art medical interiors, designed by HeliMods in British Columbia. These enhancements ensure they can meet the demanding operational requirements of BCEHS, which handles medical emergency evacuations and patient transfers between healthcare facilities, responding to over 7,800 calls annually.
