Leonardo selects Onboard Pegasus rescue hoist for AW139 fleet

Onboard Systems Hoist & Winch has been selected by Leonardo to supply its Pegasus next-generation rescue hoist for integration across Leonardo’s helicopter portfolio, starting with the AW139.

The agreement will see Leonardo offer operators a European Technical Standard Order (ETSO)-certified hoist designed to deliver enhanced operational capability, improved reliability, greater aircraft availability, and simplified maintenance for demanding rescue missions.

“Leonardo’s commitment to innovation, performance, and safety makes them an ideal partner and launch customer for our Pegasus DC rescue hoist,” said Mike Fox, Vice President of Sales at Signia Aerospace, parent company of Onboard Systems. “We are proud to support Leonardo in bringing next-generation hoist capability to operators worldwide.”

Pegasus is Onboard’s first clean-sheet hoist redesign in more than 30 years and incorporates 37 new design patents. The program builds on more than five decades of experience supporting a global fleet of over 7,000 rescue hoists and was shaped by feedback from more than 1,000 hoist operators, maintenance crews, and mission specialists worldwide.

“Pegasus is the culmination of nearly a decade of innovative engineering, advanced analysis, robust testing, and prototyping using modern materials and cutting-edge manufacturing technologies,” said Bejan Maghsoodi, Senior Technical Fellow and Pegasus design architect. “The result is a hoist that delivers significant improvements in performance, reliability, and ongoing maintenance across the board.”

In addition to line-fit installations, the companies plan to develop retrofit kits for in-service Leonardo helicopters, simplifying upgrades for existing operators and extending the benefits of Pegasus across current fleets.

Onboard recently opened a new 20,000ft² FAA Part 145-approved maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility in Anaheim, California.