- Market-driven upgrades to the SW-4 1.8 tonne light single engine helicopter will better meet the needs of training, law enforcement, EMS and passenger transport operators
- Customers will find an increase in time between overhaul on dynamic components, reducing direct maintenance costs and making the aircraft more competitive in terms of price
- Strong interest from airborne law enforcement units, with Riverside Police Department of California signing a Letter of Interest for the aircraft
- Anticipated FAA certification in 2Q 2017, through third-party U.S. partner, AAL USA
Finmeccanica presented the AW009 helicopter, a commercial evolution of the SW-4, as a competitive solution into the light single-turbine segment market. During an official ceremony at Heli Expo 2016 in Louisville, Kentucky, prospective customers were able to evaluate the potential of integration of the AW009 into their training, law enforcement, emergency medical, and passenger transport fleets.
The AW009 now features a mass vibration absorber for a smoother and more comfortable ride, as well as improvements to the hydraulic system. Integrated into the cockpit is an advanced Genesys avionics display, ensuring excellent situational awareness and a user friendly interface, while maintaining pilot visibility. An optional Rolls-Royce M250-C30P engine will provide enhanced power handling for the most demanding missions. The Rolls-Royce M250-C20R (SP) engine still remains standard on the AW009 and has shown reliably high performance for existing operators.
Through attractive pricing and an increase in the time between overhaul on dynamic components, new customers will find the aircraft to be a competitive and cost-effective replacement to their existing fleet.
With strong interest from airborne law enforcement operators during demonstrations and advisory board reviews, Finmeccanica Helicopter Division has received an initial Letter of Interest from the Riverside Police Department of California, as it anticipates a near-term fleet replacement.
Finmeccanica Helicopter Division has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AAL USA of Huntsville, Alabama, to facilitate avionics integration and FAA certification, expected by year end. Completion, prior to deliveries of the AW009, would begin from AAL USA, in 2017.