Multi-pronged market attack
Günter Endres
With more than 210 units now sold worldwide, including a significant number in the Middle East, it is not surprising that Finmeccanica company AgustaWestland (Stand 1711 and OD1450) is exhibiting the AW139 at IDEX, courtesy of Abu Dhabi Aviation.
Having proved itself in a variety of roles, from offshore support and search-and-rescue (SAR) to aeromedical evacuation and VVIP transport, in diverse environments, this best-selling medium twinengined helicopter is becoming a common sight in the skies over the UAE, both in the markings of the armed forces and commercial operators, as well as in other parts of the Gulf. Falcon Aviation Services operates the AW139 on 24/7 SAR for the UAE Armed Forces and on VVIP and charter work, while the Royal Oman Police, already operating A109s, will take delivery of the AW139 later this year. AgustaWestland stresses the growing requirement in the region for VIP and heads of state transports.
Apart from the AW139, its smaller A109 Power and Grand models are already being operated in this role in the Middle East, but the company is also pitching the large, three-engined EH101, which has been selected as the US Presidential transport, to this market. The 15-tonne EH101 can carry up to 30 passengers and its three-engine configuration provides excellent safety and performance.The company has also started to market the naval version of the Super Lynx, which it views as a niche product in this part of the world. The Royal Air Force of Oman has successfully introduced the type for land and offshore use. Looking further ahead, AgustaWestland is also promoting the Future Lynx, a new helicopter based on the dynamics system of the proven Super Lynx 300. Seventy aircraft have been ordered by the UK Ministry of Defence for operation by the British Army in the battlefield reconnaissance role and by the Royal Navy in the maritime surveillance and attack role.
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