Features Commercial Oil & Gas
Cougar Helicopters takes delivery of AW139

Jan. 14, 2010 –
AgustaWestland has announced that the VIH Cougar Helicopters Inc. of USA has taken delivery of
an AW139 medium twin helicopter during an official ceremony recently held at
Vergiate plant (Italy). This 12 seat-configured helicopter will be operated for
offshore transport missions in the Gulf of Mexico.

Emilio Dalmasso,
Senior Vice President Commercial Business Unit, AgustaWestland said, “We are
delighted that such a leading customer is taking delivery of this helicopter.
This handover marks the addition of a fourth offshore operator for the AW139
helicopter in the Gulf of Mexico, further strengthening the already impressive
success achieved by this model in the oil & gas support industry. The AW139
will enable the operator to deliver enhanced levels of service.”  

The
AW139 has quickly become the aircraft of choice in its class for offshore oil
and gas support operations offering unparalleled features in terms of
performance, capacity and safety. The AW139 is ideally suited for the offshore
role, with its large cabin and baggage compartments allowing it to transport 12
to 15 passengers, offering ease of access and egress with its large sliding
doors. The superior power of the two engines ensures the AW139 has the best
performance in its weight class in all operating conditions. With its power
reserve, the AW139 assures Category A (Class 1) superior performance from a
helipad (elevated or at ground level) at maximum take-off weight with a
superior one engine inoperative capability. Excellent payload and performance
ensure unmatched productivity for offshore operations. Energy-absorbing landing
gear, fuselage and seats as well as high main and tail rotor ground clearance
provide added safety for the passengers and maintenance teams whilst on the
ground. More than 440 AW139 helicopters have been ordered so far by over 120
customers in almost 50 countries to perform various roles including offshore
transport, EMS/SAR, VIP/Corporate transport, law enforcement, utility.

With over 50 consecutive years of helicopter
management experience, the VIH Aviation Group is well positioned to provide
quality helicopter services throughout the world. The VIH Aviation Group
services many helicopter charter markets including forestry, oil and gas, air
ambulance services, offshore oil personnel transport, mining exploration and
aerial construction. The VIH Aviation Group includes a variety of unique
aviation companies and divisions comprising Cougar Helicopters Inc., providing
leading offshore oil and gas helicopter services with permanent facilities
supporting the oil and gas fields off the East coast of the USA.