Leonardo and Pratt & Whitney Canada today announced the successful completion of the first flight of an AW139 mid-twin helicopter, powered by PT6C-67C engines, using 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Carried out at Leonardo's facilities in Cascina Costa di Samarate (Italy) on November 21, the 75-minute flight and ground tests evaluated engine performance with multiple power variations and other systems. The test showed an exceptional response to the new fuel, with no significant differences compared to using Jet A1 fuel.
This achievement marks a historic first for both Leonardo helicopters and Pratt & Whitney Canada's PT6 engine family. Earlier this year, AW139 helicopters in service performed flights with SAF, blended with traditional aviation fuel in accordance with current certification standards, in Japan, Malaysia and, most recently, the United Arab Emirates. All major civil models in Leonardo's helicopter range are certified for SAF operations with a mix ratio of up to 50%.
The 100% SAF demonstration flight of the AW139 is yet another example of the excellent design and exceptional performance of the aircraft and its systems, being considered the most successful helicopter in its category. With more than 1.100 AW139s in service worldwide and nearly 4 million flight hours logged to date, this effort demonstrates another tangible benefit of the aircraft's capabilities for operators undertaking missions in varying weather and environmental conditions while pursuing targets. more ambitious sustainability plans.
Gian Piero Cutillo, General Director of Leonardo Helicopters, said: “We are demonstrating, with this flight, how we can the rapidly evolving sustainability requirements in aviation as the sector seeks greater use of SAF in operations. We did this with the AW139 and can attest that this technology allows for more sustainable operations, maintaining a high level of performance while significantly contributing to reducing CO2 emissions. We are committed to ing forces with aviation industry partners and suppliers, authorities, energy leaders and rotorcraft service providers to encourage the use of SAF and drive carbon footprint reduction.”
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