Leonardo has declared that Mercy Flight Central, a healthcare provider situated in western New York, has secured a contract for four IFR-certified AW119Kxs for emergency medical services transport missions. The initial aircraft delivery is anticipated in 2022.
These newly IFR-capable aircraft will facilitate in-flight critical care and patient transport within Mercy Flight’s expansive 150-mile service area. The AW119Kx in its latest iteration is the first single-engine helicopter in decades to fulfill current IFR standards without compromise. This enables Mercy Flight pilots to navigate the aircraft safely in low visibility and the treacherous weather conditions frequently encountered in this region, thanks to cutting-edge avionics from Genesys Aerosystems and backup flight systems.
The IFR-capable AW119Kx serves as an excellent entry-level solution for commercial and public service operators aiming for maximum safety and performance while operating under tough conditions, yet maintaining single-engine economic benefits. This is complemented by the AW119’s remarkable light-twin-like dual redundancies in vital systems and cabin configurations, while providing exceptional reliability and safety.
“We are thrilled to introduce the AW119 to the communities we assist,” stated Jeff Bartkoski, president/CEO of Mercy Flight Central. “This aircraft will empower us to reach individuals in urgent need with enhanced safety and operational improvements that will elevate our care for many years to come.”
“We are extremely delighted to extend our collaboration with Mercy Flight Central,” remarked William Hunt, managing director of Leonardo Helicopters U.S. “Their acquisition of an IFR-certified AW119 will significantly support their first responders who routinely undertake life-saving missions in adverse weather and will allow for an efficient cabin layout for patient transport and care, enhancing the outstanding service they provide to their community.”
The AW119Kx IFR marked its initial order in the US EMS market in 2020. This latest transaction continues to bolster Leonardo helicopters’ share in the North American EMS market, which now encompasses approximately 100 aircraft across a fleet of AW119s, AW109s, AW169s, and AW139s.
