Leonardo Expands Helicopter Fleet in Chile
Leonardo has announced the upcoming delivery of two additional civil helicopters to private operators in Chile by early 2019. This expansion will enhance a robust fleet comprising over 20 aircraft currently operational in the region. Notably, this delivery will introduce the new AW109 Trekker light twin, tailored for utility missions, into the Chilean market in the first quarter of 2019. Additionally, an AW119Kx single-engine helicopter designed for VIP transport will arrive by the fourth quarter of 2018.
The AW109 Trekker retains the esteemed AW109 Grand airframe, featuring a spacious cabin and outstanding performance. It provides superior payload capacity at a competitive price point, making it an ideal choice to meet the demanding operational requirements of Chilean operators, particularly in high-altitude conditions. Its efficiencies and cost-effectiveness align with the environmental needs of various missions.
Diverse Helicopter Operations in Chile
In Chile, various helicopter types are in active service, including the AW119, AW109, AW139, and W-3A Sokol. These helicopters perform critical roles across VIP transport, firefighting, law enforcement, and utility operations. The impressive fleet comprises over 400 military and civil helicopters across Latin America, establishing Leonardo as a pivotal player in the regional helicopter market. This landscape covers a vast range of applications such as naval operations, law enforcement, homeland security, emergency medical services (EMS), search and rescue (SAR), firefighting, disaster relief, utility operations, and VVIP-VIP/corporate transport, including offshore missions.
