The operational capabilities and range of options of the AW169 light intermediate twin-engine helicopter will be further increased with the launch of a 5.100 kg (11.243 lb) IGW kit and an 11-seat configuration fully compliant with IOGP (International Association of Producers) Report 690 of Oil and Gas). Both will be available for the aircraft in the version with sliding landing gear.
The 5.100 kg (11.243 lb) kit for the skid version of the AW169, originally designed to meet government and defense requirements in missions such as troop transport and combat operations, will also meet the needs of the public and civil service market, taking advantage of numerous operational and performance benefits.
The main factors for this capacity expansion are the model's inherent growth potential, which does not require modifications to the design of essential components, and the performance enhancement packages, which offer greater engine and transmission power, as well as improved aerodynamics across the board. conditions and for all applications. Compared to the standard maximum takeoff weight of 4.800 kg (10582 lb), the extra 300 kg (661 lb) made available by the 5.100 kg IGW kit allows the boarding of three more engers or the addition of fuel for approximately one additional hour of flight. mission. Existing operators who have the skid variant of the model will be able to retrofit the 5.100 kg IGW kit to enhance the functionality of their aircraft.
As an additional option, the 11-seat configuration, fully compliant with IOGP Report 690 (Recommended Practices for Offshore Helicopters), will feature a new modular fuel tank system and two additional Type IV emergency exits in the cabin, increasing the total number from four to six. The configuration will be available for the skid-equipped version in combination with the 5.100 kg IGW kit. This solution will allow the model to meet the most demanding offshore transport requirements in of payload, range and compliance with the latest IOGP standards.
The 11-enger configuration will enable a radius of action of up to 75 nm, therefore offering capabilities normally achievable only with models with MTOW greater than 5,5 tonnes (intermediate class) at a light intermediate class operating cost, as well as ensuring the latest safety standards compared to traditional helicopters. It will also offer greater sustainability over older types in this weight class, among other solutions, thanks to a more efficient engine, advanced navigation, modern and maintenance approach. Certification of the increased IGW is expected from 2024, while the 11-seat configuration with the new modular fuel tank is expected to be certified in 2026.
These latest operational capabilities will be in addition to EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency) certifications for the sliding landing gear and unique single-pilot IFR advanced search and rescue (SAR) modules, both achieved in the final 2022. With this certification, the AW169 became the only modern aircraft with CS29 certification capable of offering all landing gear solutions, further demonstrating the versatility of the project. The AW169 is also the only helicopter in its weight class to feature advanced SAR modes.
Previously developed performance enhancement packages had already improved engine performance and capabilities, transmission ratings, and available payload through engine software updates and modifications to the aircraft's aerodynamics, making the model the helicopter with the best weight-to-power ratio in its category.
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