KUALA LUMPUR (May 20): Weststar Aviation Services, which is leading Malaysia’s biggest government helicopter programme, will work with the Melaka state government to build a 17.1-acre aviation centre at Melaka International Airport.
The centre will include a helicopter flight training centre, a maintenance and repair hub, and a logistics hub.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Weststar Aviation Services said the partnership includes a two-year period to finalise technical and commercial plans, with both sides aiming to boost Melaka’s role in the regional aerospace sector.
Weststar Aviation Services Sdn Bhd and the Melaka state government signed a memorandum of understanding at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima) 2025, witnessed by Italy’s deputy defence minister and the ambassador of Italy to Malaysia.
Weststar and Leonardo will supply up to 28 helicopters to Malaysia for search and rescue, security, and emergency use under a RM16.5 billion lease deal signed in December 2024. The helicopters, which include AW149 helicopters for the Royal Malaysian Air Force and Army, will be leased to the government for 15 years, with most arriving between 2026 and 2027.
Leonardo will also provide local support and training.
Weststar and Leonardo will continue to invest in local capabilities such as simulators, maintenance facilities, and mission systems to support Malaysia as a regional helicopter hub.