Rotorcraft
Leonardo Bolsters Lineup with Kopter Buy
Leonardo has purchased Swiss OEM Kopter, which expects to certify its long-single SH09 by the end of this year.
As Kopter nears the final stages of the certification program for the SH09 single-engine utility helicopter, industry giant Leonardo bought the Swiss startup manufacturer from its Russian owner, with plans to accelerate the SH09’s market entry. Photo: Mariano Rosales
As Kopter nears the final stages of the certification program for the SH09 single-engine utility helicopter, industry giant Leonardo bought the Swiss startup manufacturer from its Russian owner, with plans to accelerate the SH09’s market entry. Photo: Mariano Rosales

Before ever having put a helicopter into service, Swiss OEM Kopter has been sold to Leonardo, the two companies announced on the opening day of Heli-Expo 2020. The Italian manufacturer will acquire 100 percent of the Wetzikon, Switzerland-based company, which anticipates dual EASA/FAA certification for its SH09 light single by year-end. Leonardo expects the purchase from investment firm Lynwood to be completed in the first quarter, subject to regulatory approval.