aw169

AgustaWestland has started full-scale production of the new generation AW169, a light intermediate 4.5t-class helicopter.

The first AW169 has entered the final assembly line at the company’s facility in Vergiate, Italy, with plans to begin deliveries in the second quarter of this year.

Said to be the first all new aircraft in its weight category, the AW169 incorporates advanced technologies in rotor system, engines, avionics, transmission and electric power generation and distribution systems.

Comprising four prototypes, the AW169 flight test programme has completed more than 1,200 flight hours to date in Italy, the UK and US.

AgustaWestland’s plant in Yeovil, UK, is manufacturing rotor blades and tail rotor transmission system for the AW169.

The company is planning to install a second final assembly line at its Philadelphia plant in the US.

"The AW169 flight test programme has completed more than 1,200 flight hours to date."

AgustaWestland is installing training systems at its Sesto Calende Training Academy in Italy, including a level-D full flight simulator and maintenance trainer.

The AW169’s avionic suite includes a digital NVG-compatible cockpit with touchscreen technology and the powerplant features an auxiliary power unit mode.

Designed to accommodate up to ten passengers, the AW169 shares the same common cockpit concept and design philosophy of the AW139 and AW189 helicopters.

The rotorcraft has received 120 orders so far from customers around the world for applications, including executive and private transport, air ambulance, law enforcement, offshore transport and utility roles.

The AW169 is yet to receive certification from the European Aviation Safety Agency.

Image: The first AW169 has entered the final assembly line at AgustaWestland’s facility in Vergiate, Italy. Photo: courtesy of AgustaWestland.