The contract includes a comprehensive customer support and training package as well as options for an additional two aircraft.
Leonardo recently announced that SonAir has placed an order for two AW139 intermediate twin engine helicopters Airline Services, S.A. (SonAir) is owned by the Angolan national petroleum company Sonangol. The order contract will also include well-drafted and comprehensive customer support and training package as well as options for an additional two aircraft in the future. The AW139s will be used to carry out transport operations supporting the national Oil & Gas industry and replacing ageing helicopters, with deliveries expected in 1Q 2023.
The type features state-of-the-art avionics with advanced navigation and collision avoidance systems to enhance situational awareness and reduce pilots’ workload, unmatched speed, power margins and overall performance, the widest cabin in its category featuring high modularity for rapid reconfiguration, a unique 60+ min run-dry capable main gear box for enhanced reliability and safety and up to 1,000 certified kits.
Leonardo’s presence in the African Continent
- Two AW139s plus options, with support and training services, with deliveries expected in 1Q 2023
- Over the last eight years, Leonardo has been the only manufacturer to expand its presence in the African offshore market, almost doubling the number of its aircraft
- Over 1,250 AW139s on order in 80 countries by 290 customers across all mission sets
The AW139 helicopter programme got its certification in 2004 and was declared as the bestselling type in its category by the company. Since coming into service the helicopter has logged orders for over 1,250 units from more than 290 customers in over 80 countries logging in excess of 3.3 million flight hours to date, which according to Leonardo is the benchmark platform in the energy industry today.The AW139 delivers outstanding capabilities, technology and safety to meet stringent requirements from operators for tasks in harsh conditions to maximize effectiveness.
The Angolan and overall African energy market is showing significant potential for Leonardo’s latest generation helicopter models. The African Oil&Gas market is delivering promising signs, considering reserves, and the opportunities for new projects. With over 200 units, the helicopter fleet comprises types from various OEMs supporting the energy industry in Africa which is one of the biggest in the world.
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According to Leonardo it has been the only manufacturer able to expand its presence in the African offshore market in the last eight years. Leonardo has almost doubled the number of aircrafts with the AW Family range of models (the AW139, AW189 and, more recently, the AW169) which deliver greater versatility and performance and higher safety standards. With over 60% of the existing offshore helicopter fleet still made of old design types, Leonardo’s state-of-the-art helicopters seem well positioned to meet fleet replacement and modernization programmes among operators in the region.
