Launch Customer For The Type In The Americas

Helicopter transport operator Era Group has taken delivery of its first two AgustaWestland AW189 heavy helicopters.

The AW189 helicopter is a versatile, multirole platform with a spacious cabin configured with 16 seats and a cockpit design incorporating the latest in advanced situational awareness technologies to reduce crew workload, optimize mission-effectiveness and enhance safety. The AW189 meets the latest international safety requirements and benefits from an industry-leading 50-minute "run-dry" capability on the main gearbox, exceeding current certification standards and offering unmatched safety and reliability for long range offshore operations.

Part of the AgustaWestland family of new generation helicopters, the AW189 and AW139 models possess the same high performance flight characteristics and safety features and share a common cockpit layout, design philosophy and maintenance concept that will enhance the efficiency of Era's operations.

"As the world's largest civilian operator of AgustaWestland helicopters, Era is pleased to serve as the launch customer for the AW189 in the Americas," said Chris Bradshaw, President and CEO of Era. "The introduction of the AW189 model expands customer options for affordable, long-range offshore transport and enhances the diversity of our fleet. Era is the only helicopter operator in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico with each of the S92, H225, AW189 and AW139 helicopter models, offering customers unparalleled flexibility. In addition, we offer tip-to-tail maintenance support, training, flight crews and flexible financing options to support leasing customers around the world."

(Source: Era Group news release. Image from file)

FMI: www.eragroupinc.com