AgustaWestland, November 09, 2015 - AgustaWestland announced today that Falcon Aviation Services (FAS) of Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates) will be the first operator in the Middle East to use the all new AW169 light intermediate twin engine helicopter for offshore oil and gas transportation services.
The announcement was made during an official ceremony held at the Dubai Airshow in presence of HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, CEO and Vice Chairman of Falcon Aviation Services.
The aircraft will be delivered in early 2016.
FAS has placed orders for two AW169s, one in offshore transport and one in executive transport configuration.
Introducing the new generation AW169 into their fleet will expand the range of AgustaWestland helicopters operated by FAS which already comprises a mix of four light twin helicopters, comprising the Grand and GrandNew models, and two all new AW189 super medium class helicopters.
The AW169 and AW189 models are part of AgustaWestland’s family of new generation helicopters that also includes the AW139. These helicopters all possess the same high-performance flight characteristics and safety features whilst sharing the same common cockpit concept and design philosophy. This approach facilitates synergies for operators of fleets across the 4 to 9 tonne weight categories in areas such as training, flight operations, maintenance and support.
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 first all new aircraft in its weight category to enter the market in more than 30 years, the AW169 4.6 tonne is certified in accordance with EASA CS-29 / FAR Part 29 latest Amendments.
The AW169 can comfortably accommodate up to ten passengers in its large, unobstructed cabin, fitted with a range of customised equipment and entertainment systems. The type incorporates several new technology features in the rotor system, engines, avionics, transmission and electric power generation and distribution systems.
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. A Flight Training Device (FTD) and a maintenance training simulator are already operational at AgustaWestland’s Sesto Calende Training Academy in Italy, while a Level D Full Flight Simulator will be available in 2016.
More than 150 AW169 helicopters have been ordered by customers around the world to date, including framework contracts and options, for a wide range of applications including executive/corporate transport, air ambulance, law enforcement, offshore transport and utility roles.
Falcon Aviation Services is one of the most successful corporate jet and helicopter services providers in the GCC region. Falcon is committed to delivering the highest level of aviation services that establish standards in terms of safety, quality and customer service. The company is a founding board member of the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) and is an authorized service centre for various aircraft.
Falcon was established in 2006 to introduce a multifaceted business model that combines offshore helicopter logistics and VIP jet charters from its main operating base at Al Bateen Executive Airport. The premier VIP airport in the UAE, Al Bateen Executive Airport is situated only 10 km from Abu Dhabi City Centre. Falcon is constantly modernizing its fleet to remain abreast of all the latest technology in the aviation industry.
The announcement was made during an official ceremony held at the Dubai Airshow in presence of HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, CEO and Vice Chairman of Falcon Aviation Services.
The aircraft will be delivered in early 2016.
FAS has placed orders for two AW169s, one in offshore transport and one in executive transport configuration.
Introducing the new generation AW169 into their fleet will expand the range of AgustaWestland helicopters operated by FAS which already comprises a mix of four light twin helicopters, comprising the Grand and GrandNew models, and two all new AW189 super medium class helicopters.
The AW169 and AW189 models are part of AgustaWestland’s family of new generation helicopters that also includes the AW139. These helicopters all possess the same high-performance flight characteristics and safety features whilst sharing the same common cockpit concept and design philosophy. This approach facilitates synergies for operators of fleets across the 4 to 9 tonne weight categories in areas such as training, flight operations, maintenance and support.
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 first all new aircraft in its weight category to enter the market in more than 30 years, the AW169 4.6 tonne is certified in accordance with EASA CS-29 / FAR Part 29 latest Amendments.
The AW169 can comfortably accommodate up to ten passengers in its large, unobstructed cabin, fitted with a range of customised equipment and entertainment systems. The type incorporates several new technology features in the rotor system, engines, avionics, transmission and electric power generation and distribution systems.
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. A Flight Training Device (FTD) and a maintenance training simulator are already operational at AgustaWestland’s Sesto Calende Training Academy in Italy, while a Level D Full Flight Simulator will be available in 2016.
More than 150 AW169 helicopters have been ordered by customers around the world to date, including framework contracts and options, for a wide range of applications including executive/corporate transport, air ambulance, law enforcement, offshore transport and utility roles.
Falcon Aviation Services is one of the most successful corporate jet and helicopter services providers in the GCC region. Falcon is committed to delivering the highest level of aviation services that establish standards in terms of safety, quality and customer service. The company is a founding board member of the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) and is an authorized service centre for various aircraft.
Falcon was established in 2006 to introduce a multifaceted business model that combines offshore helicopter logistics and VIP jet charters from its main operating base at Al Bateen Executive Airport. The premier VIP airport in the UAE, Al Bateen Executive Airport is situated only 10 km from Abu Dhabi City Centre. Falcon is constantly modernizing its fleet to remain abreast of all the latest technology in the aviation industry.
See also |
AW169 in
Falcon Aviation Services 
