The contract marks the entrance of this new type into the Italian passenger transport market

• Delivery in mid-2015, replacing an ageing AS365 helicopter
• The order follows the success of the AW169 in Italy for EMS duties
• The success of the AW169 continues in the passenger and VIP/corporate transport markets

Finmeccanica – AgustaWestland announced today that HoverFly of Italy has signed a contract for an AW169 light intermediate twin engine helicopter to perform passenger transport missions plus a comprehensive package of support and training services. This aircraft will replace an ageing AS365 helicopter providing the operator with greater mission capability and the latest safety features. The AW169 is scheduled to be delivered in mid-2015 and will operate from HoverFly’s base near Rome. This contract marks the entrance of the all new AW169 helicopter into the Italian passenger transport market and further expands the success of the type in Italy, where it has already achieved significant success for other roles such as emergency medical service (EMS). Success of the AW169 in the passenger transport and VIP/corporate market has been steadily growing as the aircraft nears certification, particularly in South American and European markets.

A versatile, new generation twin engine light intermediate category helicopter, the 4.5 tonne 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 AW169 incorporates several new technology features in the rotor system, engines, avionics, transmission and electric power generation and distribution systems, and is the first all new helicopter in its class in more than 30 years. The AW169 can comfortably accommodate up to ten passengers in its large, unobstructed cabin, fitted with a range of customized equipment and entertainment devices. Auxiliary power unit (APU) mode ensures the continued operation of the environmental control system, radios and medical devices when the rotors are stopped. The AW169’s avionic suite introduces state-of-the-art technology including a full digital NVG compatible cockpit with three 8” x 10” large area displays (AMLCD) and touch screen technology with enhanced graphics capability for maximum situational awareness. A 4-axis digital automatic flight control system (DAFCS) with dual Flight Management System (FMS) minimises crew workload allowing single/dual pilot VFR/IFR operations. The avionics suite also complies with satellite-based navigation, communication and surveillance requirements and has the capability to perform satellite-based IFR LPV (localizer performance with vertical guidance) approaches to maximize round-the-clock utilisation of the helicopter. Safety enhancing avionics such as Terrain Awareness Warning Systems, airborne collision avoidance systems can be added to the standard avionic configuration. The AW169 is designed with inherent ease of maintenance, for reliable, intensive utilisation in the most demanding conditions with high time between overhauls (TBO) and minimal life-limited parts. Time between successive inspections has been optimised to maximise aircraft availability and reduce maintenance man hours per flight hour, adopting MSG-3 approach for the maintenance process. Maintenance programmes can be tailored to meet operators’ specific requirements. Comprehensive, advanced training programmes for maintenance technicians and flight crews are available including training on a level-D full flight simulator to enhance safety and mission effectiveness.