Tue, Mar 08, 2011
First Flight Scheduled In 2012
AgustaWestland is exhibiting the AW169 helicopter at Heli-Expo
2011 for the first time. Unveiled at the Farnborough International
Airshow in July 2010, the AW169 program is progressing as planned
with the first flight scheduled in 2012 with certification at the
end of 2014 and start of deliveries immediately afterwards.
AgustaWestland says the AW169 has been designed in response to
the growing market demand for higher mission flexibility and
multi-role capability in the 4.5 ton class and to meet the current
and anticipated stringent requirements of commercial and government
operators worldwide. The AW169 will be certified in accordance with
the latest amendment of JAR/FAR 29 and JAR-OPS3. In particular, it
will be compliant for Category A, Class 1 Operations and IFR Single
and Dual Pilot Operations.
The aircraft incorporates several new technology features to
provide the highest levels of safety and operational benefits. Next
generation technologies are embedded in the rotors, blades,
engines, avionics, transmission and electric power generation &
distribution systems. Key design criteria for the AW169 are
multi-role capability, optimized for several applications with the
focus being on utility roles, role flexibility through a modular
concept for rapid re-configuration, performance with high payload
in hot-and-high environments. New generation technologies, high
levels of crashworthiness and an environment friendly design are
also key features of the AW169.
The cabin's constant section geometry can accommodate 8 or
10 persons. Alternatively, two longitudinally or transversally
mounted stretchers can be accommodated. The AW169 offers high
safety standards with high rotor clearance, OEI capability in all
flight phases, engine burst containment protection and a 30-min MGB
run-dry capability.
AW169 Artist's Rendering
The aircraft is powered by new generation advanced
FADEC-controlled Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210 turboshaft
engines which the company says will deliver maximum efficiency and
low emissions.
Advanced rotor aerodynamics with a new blade design will give a
very low external noise signature, well below regulatory limits,
making the AW169 an eco-friendly helicopter. The AW169 has been
engineered with high TBOs (Time Between Overhaul) for the power
plant and all the main components, with a limited number of
life-limited parts, high reliability and low maintenance
requirements to maximise operational effectiveness.
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