Aero Asahi Corporation (Aero Asahi), a leading provider of general aviation services in Japan, is poised to initiate operations with an AW169 light intermediate twin-engine helicopter featuring a customized Agusta layout. Aero Asahi proudly stands as the first Japanese operator to employ an exclusive VIP Leonardo helicopter within Japan under the esteemed Agusta label.
Aero Asahi has acquired significant expertise regarding the extraordinary features and capabilities of the modern AW169 model by conducting a dedicated demo tour across Japan in 2023. The AW169 exhibits remarkable performance and superior flight and navigation features due to its state-of-the-art avionics and mission systems, alongside unparalleled comfort and environmental sustainability through a tailor-made interior and APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) mode, which powers all primary cabin and cockpit systems while stationary with rotors stopped. Additionally, it complies with the latest generation of safety regulations. The Agusta brand perfectly complements these attributes for VIP/corporate transport tasks, merging top-tier performance, high comfort, and extensive customization possibilities, along with pioneering technologies that have been acknowledged globally in Leonardo’s executive transport-configured helicopters for years.
Aero Asahi’s AW169 is projected to be delivered in spring 2025 and will feature an array of specialized apparatus, including advanced soundproofing solutions, exclusive VIP seating for up to eight passengers, a Smart Cabin Management System equipped with air conditioning controls, and a cutting-edge entertainment system. The agreement also includes the exclusive and customized Agusta For You service and maintenance package.
The introduction of the AW169 has notably expanded Leonardo’s presence across multiple markets, including passenger transport. This initiative further consolidates the company’s position as a leader in the multi-engine VIP sector – with over 900 helicopters of various models and a market share exceeding 40% over the last decade – thereby providing operators with an additional option that fits seamlessly between the popular AW109 series and the best-selling AW139 models.
At present, more than 320 AW169s are on order, with approximately 170 units already delivered from the Vergiate assembly line (Italy) to operators in over 30 countries. The global fleet has logged over 170,000 flight hours across various missions and conditions.
Currently, around 160 helicopters of different types, including the AW169, are operational in Japan, utilized for a broad spectrum of missions such as law enforcement, emergency medical services, search and rescue, firefighting, disaster response, VIP/corporate transport, electronic news collection, and maritime utility.
