The Columbia River Bar Pilots in Oregon has selected the
GrandNew light twin engine helicopter as its platform of choice.
AgustaWestland made the announcement Tuesday at Heli-Expo in
Dallas. The GrandNew will replace an existing AW109 Power
helicopter that has served as their transport since the early
2000’s.
GrandNew Stock Image
The GrandNew helicopter will modernize their ship pilot
operations that service the approaches to the famous Columbia
River. The Columbia Bar River is globally recognized as one of the
most demanding and treacherous stretches of water in the world.
The GrandNew features a full digital glass cockpit while
retaining the Grand's outstanding performance and features. To
enhance safety and maximize operational capabilities, the GrandNew
is the first type certified light twin (CS/JAR/FAR 27) to enter
service with a new EFIS featuring Synthetic Vision. It is also the
first helicopter in this class on the market fully compliant with
the latest advanced global positioning system-based navigation
requirements for all weather operations. A four-axis digital
dual-duplex autopilot/flight director also helps to reduce pilot
workload and enhance safety, especially when operating in demanding
weather conditions.
The GrandNew is able to perform VTOL Cat A operations up to ISA+20
(35C at Sea Level) without any payload reduction, making it more
capable than many larger helicopters when operating in high
temperature conditions. Its "cocoon-type" composite fuselage
provides high levels of protection and is fitted with crashworthy
seats and fuel system. Additionally high levels of system
redundancy, meeting or exceeding the latest certification
requirements, are incorporated into the design.
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