The first flight of the production version of the AW609 tilt-engine aircraft, designed by Leonardo, took place on 13 October.
The AgustaWestland AW609 is a multi-purpose aircraft with vertical take-off and landing capabilities, with a design similar to the Bell V-22 Osprey. Leonardo (AgustaWestland’s parent company) is looking to redefine several areas in which helicopters traditionally operate, introducing unprecedented capabilities. The aircraft will even be certified in a new category called «powered lift», which is just being developed.
The vehicle, «AC5», took off from Leonardo’s Philadelphia facility on 13 October. Initial systems evaluation and general handling characteristics went smoothly and according to plan. Three production units, the first to be delivered to customers, are on the final assembly line in various stages of construction.
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Gian Piero Cutillo, CEO of Leonardo Helicopters, said of the milestone reached by his team, «This achievement adds to several others that the programme has reached over the last year. It demonstrates the level of maturity our programme has reached. I thank our team for making this possible as they continue to work towards certification».
Leonardo promises that the AW609 will revolutionise air transport with its helicopter-like versatility and aircraft-like performance. The AW609 stands out for its speed in long-distance point-to-point transport, whether connecting urban centres or remote locations. The model can be used for general passenger transport, emergency services (EMS), search and rescue (SAR) and offshore operations for both private and government customers. It can carry up to nine passengers in its pressurised cabin.
To date, the programme has logged almost 1,900 flight hours in the United States and Italy. Leonardo’s Training Academy in Philadelphia, opening in 2021, is home to the world’s first AW609 flight simulator.
