Leonardo's Helicopters Agusta AW09 model

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Credit: Leonardo Helicopters

Leonardo Helicopters unveils new “VIP-corporate” AW09 model

10 September 2024 • Written by Hannah Rankine for Leonardo's Helicopters

Leonardo Helicopters has unveiled a full-scale mock-up of its next-generation AW09 single-engine helicopter, under its renowned Agusta brand. The new model promises to offer the market the advanced technological and eco-conscious features of the AW09 with Agusta's exclusive “VIP-corporate” transport design. Boasting a luxurious cabin layout, customisable interior and a striking new paint scheme, the AW09 caters to clients seeking cutting-edge innovation and a premium passenger experience.

Credit: Leonardo Helicopters

Inside the cabin

Stepping on board the AW09, owners can enter through the unobstructed side and rear access. Inside is a spacious cabin and generous legroom for the single-engine class, with 6.5 square metres of interior volume. The cabin can accommodate up to eight passengers and one crew member, with flexible seating configurations ranging from 4+1 to 3+3+2. This allows owners to tailor the seating arrangement based on flight preferences and desired views. Passengers and pilots alike benefit from excellent visibility through the glass cockpit.

Owners can further personalise the interior with a variety of premium materials, finishes, and colour schemes, including Desert Dawn, Cedar Woods, Ocean Twilight, and Dark Cosmos. For optimal temperatures onboard, powerful air-conditioning and heating systems enhance the overall experience.

When it comes to stability, the AW09 prioritises smoothness and safety. Its modern five-bladed main rotor and shrouded tail rotor deliver superior manoeuvrability, quieter operation and greater on-ground clearance.

Credit: Leonardo Helicopters

Power and efficiency

In terms of performance, the AW09 boasts a maximum speed of 140 knots and a range of 430 nautical miles, and pilots benefit from the advanced Garmin G3000H integrated flight deck. With five hours of endurance, the AW09 is well-suited for long-range flights, while its built-in redundancy across all main systems and compliance with the latest safety standards, including bird-strike resistance, ensures a reliable and secure flight.

The model has been designed with a focus on sustainability, incorporating modern manufacturing processes that minimise material and energy consumption. Its rotor architecture reduces noise levels compared to older designs, and the engine is devised to lower both fuel consumption and emissions. A high degree of digitalisation supports more efficient maintenance and training, cutting down on material waste and optimising simulation training to reduce the need for real-aircraft flight time.

Credit: Leonardo Helicopters

Streamlined maintenance and global support

Maintenance is made easy with the AW09, with comprehensive and efficient support through the Agusta For You service and Leonardo Helicopters’ Customer Portal. Tailored specifically for corporate rotorcraft operators, these services boost aircraft availability while reducing inventory costs. By covering both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance of the airframe, avionics and other components, the package ensures optimal cost management for operators.

With its digital connectivity, the AW09 enables simple data transmission for real-time technical support and analysis. This allows for more efficient scheduled maintenance and improved flight safety. Additionally, Leonardo Helicopters’ global support network offers the peace of mind that maintenance services are accessible wherever operators are located in the world.

Credit: Leonardo Helicopters

Simplified ownership

The AW09 is quickly becoming a favourite among rotorcraft companies and private operators, thanks to its modern features and multirole capabilities that represent a significant leap forward in the single-engine category. Clients from around the world, including Metro Aviation in North America, Gualter Helicopters in Brazil, Synerjet Latina SA in Latin America, Aero Facility in Japan, Sloane in the UK, and Leman Aviation in France, have shown great enthusiasm as the model continues to evolve.

For a simple ownership experience, the Leonardo Helicopters Customer Portal provides owners with real-time updates on their helicopter's manufacturing and testing progress, complete with images. This ensures a more personalised and streamlined process, supported by Leonardo's comprehensive 360-degree service approach. The AW09 further enhances Leonardo's portfolio in the Long Light Single segment, offering a design that secures long-term competitive positioning in this weight class.

To find out more about the Agusta AW09, contact Leonardo Helicopters today.

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