Westair Group is an established provider of helicopter Search and Rescue (SAR) services, combining international expertise with local operational capability. Through integrated aircraft, crew, and medical solutions, Westair supports safe and effective operations in offshore and remote environments.
OFFSHORE SEARCH AND RESCUE OPERATIONS
Westair Group has been delivering helicopter Search and Rescue (SAR) services to multiple Oil & Gas operators from Oranjemund and Lüderitz, Namibia, since 2021. By combining Air Rescue UK’s all-weather offshore SAR expertise with Westair helicopter pilots experienced in hoist and SAR operations, Westair consistently meets client requirements for SAR services with integrated medical provision.
FLEET CAPABILITY AND OPERATIONAL REACH
Westair Group currently provides daylight SAR operations using the AW139. From October 2025, the introduction of the Airbus H225 will deliver increased capacity and extended range, enabling a secure platform for future 24/7 all-weather SAR operations where required, while retaining AW139 SAR capability for less distant operational areas.
INTERNATIONAL ALL-WEATHER SAR EXPERTISE
Air Rescue UK brings extensive military and commercial all-weather SAR experience gained across global operations. This includes a central role in the establishment and continued delivery of the UK Ministry of Defence Falkland Islands SAR contract, providing 24/7 SAR support in one of the world’s most demanding maritime environments.
AIR RESCUE AFRICA JOINT VENTURE
Established in 2024, Air Rescue Africa Offshore Services (Pty) Ltd is a Namibian-registered joint venture between Westair Aviation Group, Air Rescue UK Ltd, and Medical Rescue Africa (MRA), following four years of collaboration on SAR projects. Air Rescue Africa is positioned to support SAR and hoist operations throughout Namibia and the wider southern African region.
LOCAL CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING
A core objective of Air Rescue Africa is the development and training of local personnel to internationally and industry-recognised standards for hoist operations. Currently, 50% of SAR specialist rear crew supporting Westair Group SAR contracts are Namibian, with this proportion increasing as operational experience grows toward full Namibian crewing.
INTEGRATED RESCUE AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT SERVICES
Westair Group, through Air Rescue Africa, is ready to support operators across southern Africa with SAR technical crew, hoist operators, and winchmen, as well as qualified technical crew for helicopter operations including HEMS rescue, port services, and medical rescue. The Group’s breadth of experience and partnerships enables support from project inception through to delivery, providing assured, flexible, and cross-boundary rescue solutions.
