Australia confirmed the acquisition of 40 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters this year after approval was given from the US State Department for a US$1.95 billion purchase.

The Flight Attendants Association of Australia has accused the Flying Kangaroo of a “breathtaking” lack of transparency over the deal, which it says will use “labour hire” firms.

However, Jason Harfield insisted “aviation safety performance has been maintained” and pledged to ensure “transparency and accountability for our ongoing performance”.

The agreement will see Flair aircraft and crew fly Bonza-branded flights in the Australian summer, while Bonza will reciprocate and send its planes and people to Canada during the North American peak season.