Leonardo disclosed today that Bristow Group Inc. (NYSE: VTOL) has finalized an agreement to acquire six AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopters to bolster the Second-Generation Search and Rescue Aviation (“UKSAR2G”) initiative by the U.K. Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA). Deliveries of the aircraft are anticipated to commence in 2023 and conclude in 2024, joining an existing squadron of nine AW189 super-medium twin-engine SAR helicopters as part of the UKSAR2G initiative.
These new AW139 helicopters will showcase the latest advancements in product improvement, technology, and operational capabilities for the mission, including a 7-ton MTOW (Maximum Take-Off Weight), Honeywell Primus Epic integrated avionics Phase 8, a sophisticated Synthetic Vision System (SVS), enhanced 2D maps, and wireless data loading, ensuring superior all-weather performance and operational effectiveness. Additionally, these AW139s will incorporate a Limited Ice Protection System (LIPS) to enhance mission readiness in challenging weather conditions. This new fleet of AW139 SAR helicopters meeting the UKSAR2G requirements will benefit from the innovative Leonardo-Bristow long-term global service program. The aircraft will also undergo mission system integration completed by Bristow in collaboration with Nova Systems post-delivery, ensuring greater engagement of UK-based industries.
Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo Helicopters, remarked: “This recent phase supporting our vital partner Bristow to fulfill significant user demands stands as further confirmation of the remarkable capabilities of our top-selling AW139, regarded as the aircraft of choice in its segment for SAR among major operators and nations. It seamlessly complements the medium to long-range SAR functionality of the AW189, delivering unmatched combined capabilities for the mission. We take pride in continuing to contribute to the MCA partnership, as this type, alongside its technology and support solutions, will significantly benefit the communities served in the UK.”
Leonardo and Bristow have enjoyed a partnership spanning over 26 years, with Bristow operating a diverse array of helicopter types, including the AW119 single-engine, AW109 light twin, AW139 intermediate twin, and AW189 super-medium. With the addition of these six AW139s, Bristow’s fleet of Leonardo helicopters will total nearly 100 units. Bristow’s Leonardo helicopters have successfully completed missions like offshore transport supporting the energy sector, SAR operations, and emergency medical services across the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Australasia.
With over 1,100 units active, serving more than 280 clients in approximately 90 countries, and exceeding 3.3 million flight hours logged since its certification in 2004, the AW139 has established itself as a highly effective tool for rescue and emergency operations. Nearly 400 aircraft, encompassing military, parapublic, and civil operators, are engaged in emergency and disaster relief operations globally, achieving over 900,000 flight hours to date. This unique blend of top-tier performance and cabin space, adherence to the latest safety and certification standards (often surpassing them), advanced navigation and mission avionics/technology, coupled with impressive adaptability and high customization levels (featuring over 1,000 kits certified for various applications), has significantly cemented the life-saving mission potential of the AW139.
