AW189 Approved A Week Behind Eurocopter's EC175

EASA on Friday issued a Type Certificate to AgustaWestland for the AW189 medium twin-engine helicopter. This certification occurs one week after Airbus Helicopters, an Airbus Group Company, completed the EASA Type Certification process for its EC175 medium twin-engine helicopter. Both helicopters now comply with the highest and most stringent safety requirements set by EASA for Europe.

Patrick Ky, EASA Executive Director said: “Both certifications are a great achievement and an important milestone as they pave the way for entry into service of a new generation of multirole European helicopters. They respond to a growing market demand and I am confident that they will operate safely in sometimes very demanding environments."

EASA will continue to work closely with the two manufacturers to ensure that the certified helicopters maintain the highest standards of safety throughout their entire in-service lifecycle.

AgustaWestland said in a news release that the certified AW189 helicopter configuration is fully compliant with the requirements for offshore oil and gas operations and includes all the relevant kits and avionic features to perform this demanding role. The certified flight envelope for the aircraft enables operators to undertake operations in demanding and harsh environments from initial entry into service.

“EASA certification of the new generation AW189 is a tremendous achievement and marks a major milestone in the development of new generation long range helicopters as well as bringing into service the newest member of our unique Family of helicopters," said Daniele Romiti, Chief Executive Officer of AgustaWestland. "We are committed to ensuring that the many customers who have already ordered the AW189 and will soon take delivery of their helicopters, will get industry leading levels of service to enable them to exploit the AW189’s class leading capabilities.” 

(AW189 pictured in file photo)

FMI: http://easa.europa.eu