Press Release

Issued by Southern Vietnam Helicopter Company.

January 14, 2016

On 14th January 2016, Southern Vietnam Helicopter Company (VNH South) and AgustaWestland SpA successfully co-organized the AW189 launching ceremony for registration No. VN-8640 at Vung Tau airport, Vung Tau city. The event was held with participation of representatives from Ministry of Defence, Civil Aviation Administration of Vietnam, Vietnam Helicopter Corporation, oil and gas companies in Vietnam and AgustaWestland. The ceremony also attracted the attention from the press and media.

The AW189, the latest medium-range helicopter, is designed with a series of advanced equipment such as the Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning Systems (EGPWS), the Helicopter Terrain Avoidance Warning System (HTAWS) and the Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS II) and Point-In-Space (PINS) ensure safety and reliability, the main gearbox benefits from an unparalleled 50 minute dry-run capability. Spacious cabin helps maximize passengers' comfort.

It fully meets the safety standards of the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), European Aviation Safety Agency (EASE) and International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (OGP).

At the event, the invitees joined sightseeing flights performed by the brand new AW189 helicopter around Vung Tau city. AW - 189 had brought satisfaction to all guests from the first use.

AW189 VN-8640 is the first one handed over among the three helicopters from AgustaWestland following the signed contract, increasing the company's helicopter fleet to 20 in total, marks amilestone in helicopter fleet of VNH South development process. VNH South hopes that the new type of helicopter will enhance the service quality, fulfill requests from oil & gas companies, and complete all other missions.