AgustaWestland is proud to announce that Linfox has signed a contract for three AW169 helicopters in full VIP configuration. The aircraft will be used to perform corporate transport missions in the Melbourne area of Australia. This order marks the entrance of the AW169 into the Australian corporate/VIP transport market and continues the growing success of the all new AW169 helicopter in the global market. This contract adds to the one for two EMS-configured AW169s performed by Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust in New Zealand further strengthening the success of this model in Australasia. Contracts for more than 50 AW169s have now been signed by customers worldwide so far since its launch in summer 2010. AgustaWestland has sold more than 40 commercial helicopters of various types in Australia to perform various roles including corporate/VIP transport, search and rescue, offshore transport, law enforcement and medical transport.

Emilio Dalmasso, Senior Vice President Commercial Business Unit, AgustaWestland, said “We are very pleased that Linfox has chosen the new generation AW169 to meet its future VIP transport requirements as it moves up to a 4.5 tonne category helicopter. Linfox was the first Australian customer for the AW119 Koala in 2000 and followed that by buying Grand and GrandNew light twins, so we are delighted we are able to continue to meet the requirements of this loyal customer.” 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.