AgustaWestland Helos Will Be Tasked With Fighting Water Pollution

AgustaWestland delivered two Grand light twin helicopters to the Maritime Safety Administration (MSA) of China during an official ceremony held at AgustaWstland's Vergiate facility in Italy Thursday. The MSA is responsible for monitoring all inland and coastal waters and these two helicopters will be dedicated to controlling and fighting water pollution. The aircraft will also be based aboard the MSA's new large vessels performing missions in the Guangdong province, Southern China. The contract also includes an option for an additional two aircraft to be exercised next year.
 
Giuseppe Orsi, Chief Executive Officer, AgustaWestland said "We are delighted to deliver these two helicopters to the MSA, marking another major success for AgustaWestland in the increasingly important Chinese commercial helicopter market. As additional vessels on order are completed for the MSA, further expansion of its helicopter fleet will be required and we are committed to offering the best solutions to meet future customer requirements".
 
The Grand helicopter was selected following the evaluation of the responses to an international tender issued by the Ministry of Telecommunications of China, to whom the MSA reports. The Grand was chosen for its operational capabilities and performance in the maritime role. AgustaWestland has already sold almost 30 helicopters in China and sees growing future business opportunities in the country.

The Grand is certified for full Cat. A/Class 1 capability enabling it to operate from elevated helipads. Orders for nearly 280 helicopters have been placed by almost 150 customers in over 30 countries worldwide for various roles including EMS, SAR, harbor pilot shuttle and VIP/corporate transport.

FMI: www.agustawestland.com