Rotorcraft
Leonardo Bullish on AW169 Sales
AW169 Offer more options, capabilities.

Leonardo Helicopters senior executives expect the new 4.8 ton maximum gross weight AW169 medium twin to sell as well as its extremely popular AW139 sibling. “I personally expect it to be as prolific as the AW139,” said Robert Brant, vice president, Americas commercial business for Leonardo Helicopters. That's a high bar, considering that the larger AW139 has sold more than 900 copies, but Brant said Leonardo is “very optimistic” for the aircraft this year now that it has gleaned FAA certification. Brant points to the AW169's competitive price point, relatively smaller exterior footprint and larger amount of cabin space compared to other aircraft in its class as reasons he thinks the AW169 will sell well. An AW169 outfitted with executive interior will be on display here at Heli-Expo and after the show will embark on a demonstration tour.