Falcon Aviation Services of Abu Dhabi has taken delivery of two AW189 super medium helicopters in offshore transport configuration. “It is the beginning of a new era for Falcon,” comments chairman Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Bin Khalifa. “With the modernisation of our helicopter fleet we set a higher standard for offshore operations in the region. Being the first operator of AW189s in the United Arab Emirates, our involvement in achieving the ever growing demands of safety, reliability and fuel efficiency within the MENA region will deepen.”

The order was signed in October 2014 and expands Falcon’s fleet of AgustaWestland helicopters, which already includes the Grand and GrandNew, and will shortly be joined by the new AW169.

The 8.3 tonne AW189 is optimised for offshore and SAR missions and has already received orders for 150 units. Its cabin is configured with 16 seats as standard with the option for a 19-seat layout, and it is unique in having a 50 minute ‘run-dry’ capable main gear box, exceeding current certification standards.

Falcon is a founding board member of the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA) and is an authorised service centre for Airbus Helicopters and Embraer Executive Jets. Established in 2006, its business model combines offshore helicopter logistics and vip jet charters from its main operating base at Al Bateen Executive Airport.