scone.com.auWestpac Rescue reaches 10,000 hours milestone
THE Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service has reached 10,000 flying hours in the AgustaWestland (AW139) aeromedical aircraft, since their introduction to the Service in 2017.
The 10,000 hours milestone was reached on Saturday when three helicopter bases were called to rescue missions in Tenterfield, Port Macquarie, Tabulam, Dyer’s Crossing, Lismore, Upper Hunter, Howes Valley and Wyong throughout the day.
“Hitting 10,000 flight hours means much more than a number to us, it signifies a huge accomplishment of work by all of our staff across each of our four bases,” said Westpac Rescue Service CEO Richard Jones. Photo supplied.
Westpac Rescue Service Chief Executive Officer Richard Jones said hitting 10,000 flight hours signified a huge work accomplishment by all staff.
“Each time an aircraft is needed, there is an expert team of ground personnel who have ensured the aircraft can safely perform to the highest standard,” Mr Jones said.
“I would like to take this opportunity to recognise our dedicated engineers, incredible Pilots and Aircrew Officers as well as the New South Wales Ambulance Critical Care Paramedics and New South Wales Health Doctors and Nurses who are integral to our daily life saving work,” he said.
“This is a team achievement that will be shared by all, but what’s most important is that we made a difference to people in our community. That’s what drives us all and we never lose sight of that,” he said.
Community fundraising has assisted AW139 aircraft maintenance costs, which are crucial in keeping the Rescue Service operating.
“Aircraft maintenance is an area of our Service that is not often seen, however it is integral. It is not just our aircrew and medical teams who are on call 24-7, our engineers are also on standby to ensure we can deliver the highest standard of care for our community,” Mr Jones said.
“To achieve 10,000 flying hours means that regular daily maintenance must be carried out on all four aircraft. Along with the daily line maintenance, there have been 34 heavy maintenance events that have taken place since 2017. These heavy maintenance events range from two weeks up to six weeks to complete,” he said.
“To date, in addition to the regular support provided to our operational bases, we’ve completed a total of 120 weeks of heavy maintenance at Broadmeadow since commencement of the AW139 flight operations,” he said.
“Thank you to our incredible supporters across Northern New South Wales who have helped us reach this milestone, keeping our Service in the air is a team effort which is only made possible thanks to the generosity of our community,” said Mr Jones.
Tags: 000 flying hours, 10, AgustaWestland aeromedical aircraft, Westpac Rescue, westpac rescue helicopter