AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, recently held its 5th Oil & Gas Seminar in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The event, attended by over 120 delegates from more than 15 countries, focused on oil and gas industry helicopter operations, support and training developments in Asia and Australasia where the AW139 helicopter is the best selling twin engine model in the region. The delegates (operators, service providers and authorities) were able to listen to briefings by aviation safety experts, helicopter operators, energy consultants and engine manufactures who shared their views on offshore operational safety, financial market trends, support and training.

Examples of “real-life” experiences of introducing and operating the AW139 helicopter in the offshore oil and gas support market were presented and discussed. The AW139 has, in only a few years, established itself as the leading helicopter in this market, outselling all other medium twin helicopters. The AW139’s superior performance, cabin space and modern technology have proved popular with operators around the world. Almost 660 AW139 helicopters have been purchased so far by nearly 180 operators in over 50 countries and over 500 aircraft are already in service. More than one third of orders have been for the offshore oil and gas transport market.