Helicopter modernization aim of Leonardo and ENAV collaboration

The aim of the partners is to join forces and offer helicopter operators products and services in the advanced instrument navigation field, while also contributing to modernize the relevant infrastructures. The partners are extremely committed to strengthen a major national resource, they said.

The agreement will allow the companies to develop and supply advanced integrated solutions for both private and public service operators, in Italy and internationally. This collaboration contributes to Italy’s critical infrastructures sustainability, digitalization, and safety objectives, with both partners as major stakeholders.  

Designing PBN procedures for helicopters

The latest certification standard of Leonardo helicopters already allows the use of modern Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) navigation procedures, and ENAV is experienced in designing PBN procedures for both fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft.    

PBN procedures, carried out through advanced satellite navigation, significantly contribute to air space optimisation by delivering greater flight operation safety thanks to greater navigation, approach and landing precision and accuracy, a key enabler – particularly in certain weather conditions. PBN is combined or replaces the more traditional land-based radio navigation systems.

Alessandro Profumo, CEO of Leonardo, said: “With this initiative, we confirm our commitment to contribute to Italy’s growth and competitiveness by strengthening a critical infrastructure like our sky as well as the systems and rules regulating its use. We do this by introducing innovation, digitalization and procedures which will come closer and closer to the future ‘urban air mobility’ scenarios, thanks to the continuous modernisation in the field of integration with our expertise in helicopters and the relevant flight safety enabling technologies, air traffic control systems and space technologies.”

A partnership aimed at helping the sector grow

Paolo Simioni, CEO of ENAV, added: “We’re proud of this agreement, which shows [the] aviation industry’s ability to create synergies aimed at helping our sector grow, and contributing to modernize systems which make flight more efficient and safer. Air space is a prime infrastructure for the Italian and international economy growth. Therefore, we’re investing in technological innovation which must also be sustainable and support the environment.

“Leonardo and ENAV are two strategic players for the technological and infrastructural development of this sector and this partnership provides further evidence of the technological excellent and quality of ENAV’s people. I’m confident that this collaboration will provide both partners with a competitive advantage in the international market.” 

Recently, Leonardo has been supporting UK Armed Forces’ Covid-19 response, offering the use of its helicopters to the army.