LIMA 2017: DCI, MFSB create helicopter training centre

Défense Conseil International (DCI) announced the creation of Helang Flying Academy in a joint venture with Major Flagship Sdn Bhd (MFSB) in Malaysia, the company announced at LIMA 2017.

The helicopter training centre will provide training for helicopter pilots and maintenance technicians in Malaysia and neighbouring ASEAN countries.

The first investments of over $14 million will be allocated to modern installations, based at Ipoh and a fleet of single and twin-turbine helicopters, the first four of which will be delivered in 2017. DCI will also promote partnership between Helang Flying Academy and its International Helicopter Training Centre, which is co-located with Helidax and equipped with the same single-turbine helicopters: EC120 from Airbus Helicopter.

DCI estimates that Helang Flying Academy will train nearly 30 trainees from Malaysia and ASEAN countries in 2017 and 2018.

Jean-Michel Palagos, CEO of DCI, said: 'Boosting performance and competitiveness is a real issue for countries like Malaysia, which occupy a central position within their region. This is why Helang Flying Academy is sized to respond to the needs of neighbouring countries, particularly members of ASEAN.

'Throughout ten years of cooperation with Malaysia, DCI has shown the highest standards in the transfer of military know-how through the development of major programmes like the creation of the Malaysian submarine force in 2005 or operational support for the army and Coast Guard since 2008. In addition, we are recognised as the reference, particularly for helicopter pilot training.'