AgustaWestland and United Rotorcraft Sign Cooperation Agreement for the AW169 Helicopter

AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce the signing of a non exclusive agreement with United Rotorcraft, an Air Methods division, to design, an air ambulance interior concept for the AW169 helicopter. The agreement includes AgustaWestland providing United Rotorcraft a full scale cabin Mock-up of the AW169 aircraft for design and full integration of the EMS interior.

This solution will include several design features including a next-generation machined aluminium floor, modular litter kits. Interior will include medical equipment racks that will be wall mounted in an effort to keep the ceiling unobstructed from head strikes, and contribute to a modular approach for this next generation EMS interior, thus adding value to the interior and aircraft for multi-mission capabilities or dedicated operations.

The one agreed with United Rotorcraft is one of the potential EMS interior solutions for the all new AW169. Key to the AW169 design criteria is its multi-role capability, optimized for several applications with the focus being on utility roles, and its role flexibility through a modular concept for rapid re-configuration. The spacious, unobstructed cabin space with constant section geometry can accommodate two longitudinally or transversally mounted stretchers for EMS applications. A wide range of equipments will be available so that each AW169 can be customised to each customer’s requirements.

The AW169 helicopter programme, which was unveiled at the Farnborough International Air Show in July 2010, is progressing as planned with the first flight scheduled in 2012. A significant number of firm orders have already been logged worldwide for a range of applications, particularly for EMS duties. A versatile, new generation twin engine light intermediate category helicopter, the AW169 has been designed in response to the growing market demand for an aircraft that delivers high performance, meets all the latest safety standards and has multi-role capabilities. The 4.5 tonne AW169 incorporates several new technology features to provide the highest levels of safety and operational benefits for its customers. New generation technologies are incorporated in the rotor system, engines, avionics, transmission and electric power generation and distribution systems. The AW169 is set to be the most advanced and cost effective helicopter in its class for a number of applications such as EMS, SAR, passenger and offshore transport, law enforcement, and utility.