Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries and Leonardo on Nov. 14 at Dubai Airshow the signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to strengthen the level of maintenance services for the fleet of AW139 intermediate twin engine helicopters in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Through this MOA, Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries (SAEI) will enter a qualification process to be recognized as a Leonardo Authorized Service Centre in country for the AW139 model and will deliver basic maintenance for the type. The MOA also includes the addition of the AW169 helicopter and the AW609 TiltRotor in the future.
“We are delighted to be appointed as the first authorized Leonardo service centre in the KSA for Leonardo’s AW139, AW169, and AW609 types,” said Captain Fahd Hamzh Cynndy, CEO of SAEI. “I am confident that our industry-leading capabilities will provide airline owners and operators with easy access to reliable, cost-effective and timely services, enabling them to achieve enhanced safety and efficiency while offering superior passenger connectivity and convenience.”
Leonardo explains the MOA demonstrates its long-term commitment to the region and aligns to Leonardo’s focus on stronger support services and proximity. The helicopter manufacturer has more than 90 service centres in over 40 countries worldwide,
“SAEI’s unique skills and expertise in aircraft maintenance services will be highly beneficial for the AW139 operations to effectively and timely serve their national communities,” said Gian Piero Cutillo, MD Leonardo Helicopters.
Since its certification in 2004, the AW139 has logged orders for over 1,200 units from more than 290 customers in over 70 countries to date. The type has proven successful in the Middle East with over 150 units in service across the region.
