AgustaWestland Chosen for Multi-Role LE/Fire Service

Beijing General Aviation Company has placed an order for 2 AgustaWestland AW189 "super-medium" twin-engine helicopters for delivery over the next 2 years. The buy will bolster the Beijing public service sector with law enforcement patrol, search & rescue, and firefighting capabilities throughout the metropolitan capitol region. 

The contract is the first purchase of the type into the Chinese civil helo market, bringing Leonardo's more popular gear into the reclusive market. Undoubtedly, now is the time to build relationships and sell aircraft, before the native industry is able to compete toe-to-toe. Beijing police will add the AW189 to its stable of AW109 and AW139 aircraft, opening up additional range and payload above and beyond its current capabilities. As outfitted from the factory, the AW189 will feature the special mission package, which includes search lighting, rescue winch and hoist systems, improved comms equipment, weather radar, cargo hooks, and pre-installed provisions for the attachment of firefighting equipment. Once delivered, Beijing Police will have the largest aviation unit of its type in the country with a total of 9 aircraft. While somewhat large, it should be noted that the Beijing administrative region covers over 21 million people across more than 6,300 miles, and 9 aircraft is just a tad inadequate for such a huge population (One would need at least a dozen).

The sale could open more doors for Leonardo and AgustaWestland, given the authoritative position held by the Police Aviation Unit there. As the foremost experts and training pioneers in China, their selection could inspire other operators to save the legwork and purchase the same proven systems. The newly created Chinese Ministry for Emergency Management would be a dream customer for any helicopter purveyor, a clean slate opportunity to outfit a national aircraft ecosystem with aircraft that will be around (and require maintenance support) for decades. The AW189 has been popular with other continental neighbors, having defined its “super-medium” niche and delivered 100+ worldwide, with the majority being outfitted for special missions. AW-series helicopters have remained popular in Asia, accounting for more than 200 in operation today. 

FMI: www.leonardocompany.com