UAE helicopter service provider Falcon Aviation has reinforced its long-term partnership with Leonardo through the introduction of the AW139 intermediate twin engine helicopter into its fleet supporting the energy industry. Falcon Aviation has signed a contract during an official ceremony at the Farnborough International Airshow for one aircraft plus one option.

This latest move will expand the fleet of Leonardo Helicopters operated by Falcon Aviation, which already includes the AW109SP, AW169 and AW189 types. In particular, five AW169s and four AW189s are used for offshore transport missions in the UAE and Kuwait. The introduction of the AW139 will make Falcon Aviation another prime user of the entire AW family of latest generation helicopters by Leonardo, a design based on commonalities across the three models in terms of certification and safety standards, components, cockpit layout and appearance, training and technical support approach.

Capt Raman Oberoi, CEO of Falcon Aviation, says: “Our acquisition of the AW139 helicopter reinforces our commitment to enhancing our energy transport mission capabilities. This addition to our fleet underscores our dedication to providing the highest level of service to our clients while continuing to invest in the latest technology and safety standards. With the integration of the AW139, we are poised to meet the growing demands and enhance our operational capabilities across the UAE and beyond.”

With the AW139, Falcon Aviation will be able to deliver complementary services in terms of capacity and range, in a weight/size category fitting between the AW169 and AW189, becoming more competitive to meet emerging market requirements in UAE and across other geographies.

With over 1,400 units on order, more than 1,200 units already in service in over 90 countries, the AW139 has demonstrated its ability to meet all requirements in market applications such as energy, EMS, SAR, law enforcement, firefighting, disaster relief, corporate/VIP, government and military tasks. The AW139 has more than 380 units in service, 2.3 million flight hours and a 90 per cent world market share in the last five years in its weight class.