Leonardo and Falcon Aviation Services, a UAE fixed and rotary wing operator, FBO and MRO, have signed a letter of intent for two latest generation AW169 light intermediate twin engine helicopters. The aircraft are intended to further expand the offshore transport capabilities of FAS for energy transport service opportunities in Africa.

As the global launch operator for the offshore-configured AW169, FAS already uses a total of five aircraft of this type for offshore and VVIP duties in the UAE and abroad. The first AW169, introduced into service by FAS five years ago, is the fleet leader with around 2,700 flight hours logged to date out of a total of more than 100,000 across a global fleet of over 130 AW169s across all operators. FAS is a leading player in the region and a prime partner of Leonardo with its fleet of 14 helicopters, which includes AW169s, five AW189 super medium aircraft and four AW109 Grand/GrandNew light twins.

The introduction of the new generation AW169 and Falcon Aviation Services' expertise is allowing the organisations served in the market to benefit from a significant leap forward in the level of service and safety, which support the oil and gas industry and transport missions.

A twin engine light intermediate category helicopter, the 4.6/4.8 tonne AW169 has been designed in response to the growing market demand for an aircraft that delivers high performance, meets all the latest certification standards and has multi-role capabilities. Orders and options for more than 290 AW169 helicopters have been signed around the world to date for a wide range of applications including energy industry support, air ambulance, executive/corporate transport, law enforcement, utility, firefighting and government duties.