Leonardo announced that it has obtained the EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency - EASA) certification for the AW109 Trekker helicopter. Deliveries will be initiated in the first quarter of the 2018. The result marks the entry on the market of the most modern light twin-engine helicopter developed by Leonardo, which further strengthens its leadership in an important segment. In particular, Leonardo will be able to meet the growing demand for a product able to offer large operational capabilities, versatility and cost / effectiveness for public utility tasks.
The AW109 Trekker, based on the widespread AW109 / Grand model range, stands out in particular for the presence of skids and a state-of-the-art Genesys Aerosystems cockpit, while maintaining the same extraordinary characteristics of operating capacity and load, , maneuverability, sturdiness and high safety standards typical of all light twin-engines produced by Leonardo. The AW109 Trekker is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW207C turbine engines. The large cabin, based on that of the Grand and GrandNew models, can accommodate up to six passengers or a combination of a stretcher and three / four nurses or two stretchers and two nurses. Being able to fly with only one pilot on board, an additional passenger can be added in the cockpit. The instrumentation reduces the pilot's workload and is equipped with advanced navigation capabilities to operate even in difficult climatic and environmental conditions. The AW109 Trekker has several features that increase its overall safety level such as, for example, structure, tanks and seats for pilot and passengers designed to withstand strong impacts, high performance with only one engine running even at high temperatures and at altitude , and a transmission capable of continuing to operate smoothly even without lubrication for up to 30 minutes.
The helicopter was conceived with a modular approach that allows to satisfy different operational requirements, according to the rules of visual or instrumental flight, with one or two pilots on board. The wide range of equipment available includes, among others, a barycentric hook, recovery winch, megaphone, electro-optical sensors, a system for sharing video information, skates for working on snow, floats, as well as various solutions for interior of the cabin. Leonardo also offers complete solutions for support, maintenance and training through its worldwide network of service centers, thus maximizing operational safety and effectiveness. The AW109 Trekker is ideal for carrying out multiple missions including helicopter ambulance, search and rescue, public order, utility, surveillance, passenger transport and government tasks. The AW40 Trekker ordered by customers all over the world are more than 109.
