Features Aircraft Innovations
New generation AW169 full scale production underway

The event marks a major milestone ahead of EASA certification, with
deliveries to the first batch of customers set to start in the 2nd
quarter of 2015. The AW169 is the first all new aircraft in its weight
category to enter the market in nearly forty years. The AW169 flight
test program, utilizing four prototypes, has so far amassed over 1200
flying hours during flight testing in Italy, the U.K. and U.S. A second
AW169 final assembly line is planned at AgustaWestland’s Philadelphia
plant in the U.S., while AgustaWestland’s Yeovil plant in U.K. is already
playing a key role in the production of rotor blades and tail rotor
transmission system. In parallel to the start of full scale production,
AW169 training systems are being established at AgustaWestland’s Sesto
Calende Training Academy in Italy, including a level-D full flight
simulator and maintenance trainer.

A versatile, new generation twin engine light
intermediate category helicopter, the AW169 has been designed in
response to the growing market demand for an aircraft that delivers high
performance, meets all the latest safety standards and has multi-role
capabilities. The AW169 is being certified in accordance with EASA CS-29
/ FAR Part 29 latest Amendments. The type incorporates several new
technology features in the rotor system, engines, avionics, transmission
and electric power generation and distribution systems, and is the
first all new helicopter in its class in nearly 40 years. The AW169 can
comfortably accommodate up to ten passengers in its large, unobstructed
cabin, fitted with a range of customized equipment and entertainment
systems. The powerplant features an Auxiliary power unit (APU) mode
ensuring the continued operation of the environmental control system,
radios and medical equipment when the rotors are stopped. The AW169’s
avionic suite introduces state-of-the-art technology including a full
digital NVG compatible cockpit with touch screen technology.

The AW169 is designed with inherent ease of maintenance, for reliable,
intensive utilisation in the most demanding conditions with high time
between overhauls (TBO) and minimal life-limited parts. Time between
successive inspections has been optimised to maximise aircraft
availability and reduce maintenance man hours per flight hour, adopting
MSG-3 approach for the maintenance process. Maintenance programs can
be tailored to meet operators’ specific requirements. The AW169
helicopter is part of AgustaWestland’s family of new generation
helicopters that also includes the AW139 and AW189. These helicopters
all possess the same high-performance flight characteristics and safety
features whilst sharing the same common cockpit concept and design
philosophy. This approach facilitates synergies for operators of these
models in areas such as training, flight operations, maintenance and
support. Over 120 AW169 helicopters have been ordered by customers
around the world to date, including framework contracts and options, for
a wide range of applications including executive and private transport,
air ambulance, law enforcement, offshore transport and utility roles.