The AW169 is also the first helicopter in its category entering the market with an electric retractable landing gear which reduces complexity and maintenance requirements.
15 January 2020: COVID-19 pandemic completely changed the air travel equations across the globe. Increased hygiene and sanitization measures, mandatory PCR tests before every flight, social distancing has led to the passengers opting for charter flights. Ease-of-travel and comfort being the primary criteria, safe travel experience was one of the major reasons behind rapid rise of VIP and charter aircraft.
One such example is the success of Augusta Westland169 helicopter in Latin America. With the rapidly evolving market trends the AW169 is soon to enter the Mexican Corporate market. A Mexican private operator is all set to introduce an AW169 into service this year.
The Mexican AW16 will feature a highly customized configuration combining the highest standards of quality and comfort and leveraging the outstanding cabin space.
Since last few years AW109 light twin series and the AW139 intermediate twin have also proven extremely successful in Latin America and Mexico for various applications. Now AW169 is one more option to meet evolving regional market requirements.
The AW169 is also the first helicopter in its category entering the market with an electric retractable landing gear which reduces complexity and maintenance requirements. This solution adds to fixed landing gear and skid landing gear as options. A performance increase package is under development to provide even greater capabilities to customers in all conditions, including Hot&High, for which the AW169 will have the best in class power-to-weight ratio making the AW169 the perfect fit for operations in Mexico.
The best-in-class technology in rotor system, engines, avionics, transmission and electric power generation and distribution of AW169 makes it the preferred choice for VIP operators. 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 aircraft is powered by a pair of Pratt & Whitney PW210A turbo shafts which also have an auxiliary power unit (APU) mode, ensuring the continued operation of the environmental control system and radios, among others, when the rotors are stopped. The AW169’s avionic suite introduces state-of-the-art technology including a fully digital NVG compatible cockpit with three large area displays and touch screen technology with enhanced 3D graphics capability for maximum situational awareness.
