Engines
EASA Issues Type Certificate for AW09 Arriel 2K Engine
Turboshaft has flown more than 600 hours after first flight in March 2023
Safran's Arriel 2K engine
Safran's Arriel 2K engine powers the Leonardo AW09 helicopter. © Safran Helicopter Engines

Leonardo’s AW09 is a step closer to entry into service after EASA granted type certification for the Safran Helicopter Engines Arriel 2K that powers the light-single helicopter.

According to Safran, the 1,000-shp-class engine has dual-channel Fadec and an engine auxiliary control box that reduces pilot workload. A two-stage compressor comprising one axial and one centrifugal stage “delivers high compressor efficiency in a particularly compact package,” the French manufacturer said, while the “annular combustion chamber ensures clean and efficient fuel combustion.”