New A109E Helicopter gives young aircrew more chances to get airborne

1 August 2007

There will be more flying opportunities for Navy's junior aircrew following the Royal Australian Navy's acceptance of the A109E Helicopter in a ceremony at HMAS Albatross in Nowra today.

The Hon. Dr Brendan Nelson was joined at today's ceremony by the Chief of Navy VADM Russ Shalders, AO, CSC, RAN, and the Commander Australian Fleet RADM Nigel Coates, AM, RAN to officially witness the commencement of the Navy's Retention and Motivation Initiative in support of the Fleet Air Arm.

The Navy has leased three AgustaWestland (AW) A109E helicopters from Raytheon Australia Pty Ltd for a period of four years.

This leasing initiative provides Navy with a flexible arrangement to continue to grow and train aircrew while providing support to the Fleet and the remainder of the Navy.

The Navy has been successful in increasing the number of qualified junior aircrew who will now spend more time in the A109E maintaining skills while they wait for further operational flight training opportunities in other Navy helicopters.

The versatile A109E aircraft will be utilised for a range of activities including, consolidating flying skills, supporting fleet training, search and rescue, medical evacuation and personnel transfers.

The A109E is a single pilot, twin engine, all-weather helicopter, fitted with modern avionics. It will be capable of conducting both day and night operations in multi-role tasks. It will operate under the command, airworthiness and administrative umbrella of 723 Squadron which is located at Albatross.