The 5,100 kg Increased Gross Weight (IGW) will meet the evolving needs of the military and civil markets delivering higher weight category performance and capabilities with lower weight category costs. An 11-seater configuration and modular fuel tank will address rigorous requirements, particularly in the energy sector in terms of payload, range, and compliance with the latest standards. The latest enhancements and kits being developed leverage on the inherent growth potential of the successful latest generation AW169 helicopter. 

The AW169 light intermediate twin engine helicopter’s operational capabilities and range of options will grow further with the launch of a 5,100 kg (11,243 lb) IGW kit and an 11-seater configuration fully compliant with the IOGP (International Association of Oil & Gas Producers) Report 690. Both will be made available for the aircraft version with skid landing gear.  The 5,100 kg (11,243 lb) kit for the AW169 skid version, originally conceived to meet government and defence requirements for missions like troop transport and combat operations, will also respond to evolving civil and public service market needs leveraging multiple operational and performance benefits. Key factors to this capability expansion are the inherent growth potential of the type not requiring modifications in the design of critical components, and the performance increase packages, delivering greater engine and transmission power as well as improved aerodynamics in all conditions and for all applications. Compared with the standard 4,800 kg (10582 lb) Maximum Take-off Weight, the extra 300 kg (661 lb) available with the 5,100 kg IGW kit allows the embarkation of three more passengers or the addition of fuel for approximately one hour of operations. Existing operators of the type’s version with skids will be able to retrofit the 5,100 kg IGW kit to enhance their aircraft’s capabilities. As an additional option, the 11-seater configuration, fully compliant with the IOGP Report 690 (Offshore Helicopter Recommended Practices), will introduce 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 11 seats configuration will be available for the skid-fitted version in combination with the 5,100 kg IGW kit. This solution will allow the type to satisfy even more demanding offshore transport requirements in terms of payload, range, and compliance with IOGP latest standards. 

Leonardo’s leadership in the world’s VIP/corporate multiengine helicopter market continues to grow with new orders announced at LABACE (São Paolo, 9-11 August 2022), including two AW169 light intermediate twins and one AW109 Trekker light twin engine helicopter. One AW169 and the AW109 Trekker will be delivered to a private operator in 4Q2023. An AW169 is expected to be handed over to its user in 3Q2023. The helicopters will feature highly customized configurations and interiors and will benefit from the advanced and comprehensive support solutions which will be delivered by the new Service and Logistics Centre in Itapevi.  

The AW109 Trekker builds on the outstanding success of the legacy AW109 light twin, the benchmark in this category in Brazil. Leonardo’s first light twin to offer skid landing gear, the AW109 Trekker maintains the AW109 Grand airframe, large cabin and top-class performance while offering greater payload at a competitive cost, therefore proving it is perfectly suited to meet the stringent requirements of operators in terms of capabilities and cost effectiveness. The AW109 Trekker is equipped with a latest generation Genesys Aerosystems glass cockpit that can be configured according to customer needs: one or two pilots, VFR or IFR.