First Flight Scheduled In 2012

AgustaWestland is exhibiting the AW169 helicopter at Heli-Expo 2011 for the first time. Unveiled at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2010, the AW169 program is progressing as planned with the first flight scheduled in 2012 with certification at the end of 2014 and start of deliveries immediately afterwards.

AgustaWestland says the AW169 has been designed in response to the growing market demand for higher mission flexibility and multi-role capability in the 4.5 ton class and to meet the current and anticipated stringent requirements of commercial and government operators worldwide. The AW169 will be certified in accordance with the latest amendment of JAR/FAR 29 and JAR-OPS3. In particular, it will be compliant for Category A, Class 1 Operations and IFR Single and Dual Pilot Operations.

The aircraft incorporates several new technology features to provide the highest levels of safety and operational benefits. Next generation technologies are embedded in the rotors, blades, engines, avionics, transmission and electric power generation & distribution systems. Key design criteria for the AW169 are multi-role capability, optimized for several applications with the focus being on utility roles, role flexibility through a modular concept for rapid re-configuration, performance with high payload in hot-and-high environments. New generation technologies, high levels of crashworthiness and an environment friendly design are also key features of the AW169.

The cabin's constant section geometry can accommodate  8 or 10 persons. Alternatively, two longitudinally or transversally mounted stretchers can be accommodated. The AW169 offers high safety standards with high rotor clearance, OEI capability in all flight phases, engine burst containment protection and a 30-min MGB run-dry capability.

AW169 Artist's Rendering

The aircraft is powered by new generation advanced FADEC-controlled Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210 turboshaft engines which the company says will deliver maximum efficiency and low emissions.

Advanced rotor aerodynamics with a new blade design will give a very low external noise signature, well below regulatory limits, making the AW169 an eco-friendly helicopter. The AW169 has been engineered with high TBOs (Time Between Overhaul) for the power plant and all the main components, with a limited number of life-limited parts, high reliability and low maintenance requirements to maximise operational effectiveness.

FMI: www.agustawestland.com