Leonardo AW169 helicopter’s mission capabilities and configuration options expanded after EASA certification
Deliveries with these configurations can now commence, boosting safety and operability for aerial law enforcement and SAR providers
The Leonardo AW169 light intermediate twin engine helicopter’s operational capabilities and configuration options have increased after the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certified its skid undercarriage and unique IFR, single pilot and Advanced Search and Rescue (SAR) modes.
The introduction of skids adds to the current retractable and fixed landing gear options, meaning the AW169 is the only modern CS29-certified aircraft able to deliver all three undercarriage solutions.
The recent certification from the EASA will enable aircraft deliveries with the skid configuration to begin, with the initial handover planned for Italy’s law enforcement operators.
Additionally, the AW169 is the only helicopter in its weight category that features Advanced SAR modes. The high level of automation, which is delivered allowed for single pilot capable SAR modes certification, making the AW169 the world’s first civil-certified helicopter with the capability.
Currently, there are over 300 AW169’s on order, with around 150 units delivered from the Vergiate final assembly line in Italy to operators in 25 countries. The global fleet has logged over 125,000 flight hours in varying operations and conditions.
This positive news comes after Leonardo and Rega, a Swiss air rescue provider, mutually ended a contract for three full ice protection system equipped AW169s.
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