Features Commercial SAR
AW189 gets EASA certification for SAR variant

The range of kits for the SAR mission that have now been certified by
EASA for the AW189 include a dual rescue hoist with camera system,
search radar, high definition FLIR system, searchlight, increased
capacity fuel system, Flight Management System (FMS) & Automatic
Flight Control System (AFCS) SAR modes, cabin mission console and
various additional communication systems. The SAR variant of the AW189
has also been certified with a maximum all up mass of 8,600 kg (18,959
lb), an increase of 300 kg (661 lb), to provide increased payload.

The SAR variant of the AW189 is unmatched in its
class in terms of performance, range and endurance. The AW189 has a
maximum cruise speed of 155 knots (287 km/h) and with the increased fuel
capacity has an endurance of 5 hours 40 minutes or a maximum range of
600 nm (1,111 km). The 11.2 m3 (395 ft3) reconfigurable cabin can
accommodate two stretchers and six seated survivors alongside the two
rear crew with easy access via the aircraft large sliding doors.
Additionally the 2.4 m3 (85 ft3) baggage compartment can be accessed
from the cabin and used to store equipment. The cockpit design,
incorporating the latest in advanced situational awareness technologies,
reduces crew workload and enhances safety. The AW189 meets the very
latest international regulatory safety requirements (EASA / FAA Part 29,
JAR OPS 3 / EU-OPS). The AW189 is unique in having a 50 minute
‘run-dry’ capable main gear box, exceeding current certification
standards and offering unmatched safety and reliability for long range
offshore operations.

A wide spectrum of advanced support and training solutions, also
including latest generation HUMS (Health Usage and Monitoring System)
and Level D Full Flight Simulator, are available to AW189 operators to
maximize operational effectiveness and safety. A CAE 3000 Series AW189
simulator, designed specifically to support training for search and
rescue operations, will also be ready-for-training with Rotorsim, an
AgustaWestland and CAE joint venture, in Aberdeen in 2015. The AW189 is
part of the AgustaWestland Family of new generation helicopters that
includes the AW169 and AW139 models, which possess the same high
performance flight characteristics and safety features as well as
sharing a common cockpit layout, design philosophy and maintenance
concept. This commonality will allow more effective operations for
customers operating helicopter fleets across the 4 to 8.5 tonne weight
categories. Orders for over 130 AW189s, including framework contracts
and options, have been placed, making it the outright market leader in
its class. Following EASA certification in early 2014 aircraft have
already been delivered to customers in Europe, Asia and the Middle East
including Bristow, Weststar Aviation Services, LCI, Gulf Helicopters and
Bel Air.