News
Finmeccanica debuts the AW009 at HELI EXPO 2016
March 3, 2016 By Finmeccanica
Finmeccanica has introduced the AW009 helicopter, a commercial evolution of the SW-4, as a competitive solution into the light single-turbine segment market.
During an official ceremony at Heli Expo 2016 in Louisville, Kentucky, prospective customers were able to evaluate the potential of integration of the AW009 into their training, law enforcement, emergency medical, and passenger transport fleets.
The AW009 now features a mass vibration absorber for a smoother and more comfortable ride, as well as improvements to the hydraulic system. Integrated into the cockpit is an advanced Genesys avionics display, ensuring excellent situational awareness and a user friendly interface, while maintaining pilot visibility. An optional Rolls-Royce M250-C30P engine will provide enhanced power handling for the most demanding missions. The Rolls-Royce M250-C20R (SP) engine still remains standard on the AW009 and has shown reliably high performance for existing operators.
Through attractive pricing and an increase in the time between overhaul on dynamic components, new customers will find the aircraft to be a competitive and cost-effective replacement to their existing fleet.
The company expects a strong interest from airborne law enforcement operators during demonstrations and advisory board reviews. Finmeccanica Helicopter Division has received an initial Letter of Interest from the Riverside Police Department of California, as it anticipates a near-term fleet replacement.
Finmeccanica Helicopter Division has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AAL USA of Huntsville, Ala., to facilitate avionics integration and FAA certification, expected by year end. Completion, prior to deliveries of the AW009, would begin from AAL USA in 2017.
