Eight Helicopters Now In Service Performing Their Missions From Five Bases

The Italian Police have taken delivery of the last AW139 on order, bringing the number of aircraft in service to eight operating from five bases in central and southern Italy comprising three aircraft in Pratica di Mare close to Rome, two helicopters in Reggio Calabria and one each in Bari, Palermo and Fenosu.

The Italian Police accepted the first of the aircraft in mid-2013, and the final helicopter was delivered just after Christmas 2014.

Designated UH-139C, the Italian Police’s AW139 configuration includes a high definition latest generation FLIR, satellite communication system, searchlight, rescue hoist, cabin mission console and a high definition video down link.

The completion of deliveries marks a major milestone to enhance the rotorcraft capabilities of the Italian Police. Close cooperation between the customer and the company lead to the development of a dedicated mission configuration and a comprehensive range of support and training services. Over 1500 flight hours have been logged by the fleet so far and training has been provided to   approximately 50 aircrew and 70 maintenance technicians.

The AW139 was chosen by the customer after a comprehensive evaluation process of competing bids, proving the AW139 to be the best value solution to meet its demanding mission and safety requirements. The replacement of old helicopter models with AW139s, partially funded by the European Union Frontex programme, supports the fleet modernization plans of the Italian Police and will benefit the communities they serve by increasing overall security.

A total of 31 AW139s have been ordered by Italian government operators covering a wide range of public utility roles including law enforcement and homeland security, patrol, special operations, search and rescue, command and control, government/VVIP transport, disaster relief and training. The AW139 has been selected by and is in service with the Italian Coast Guard, Guardia di Finanza (Customs and Border protection) and the Italian Air Force. The various Italian Government agencies operating the AW139 are able to benefit from shared logistics, training and support systems.

(Image provided by AgustaWestland)

FMI: www.agustawestland.com