This February at Helicopter Association International’s (HAI) Heli-Expo 2015, AgustaWestland announced plans to increase the AW139’s maximum gross weight to seven tonnes, giving the helicopter further appeal in the offshore oil-and-gas sector.
For new build aircraft in an offshore configuration, the AW139’s useful load will be increased by 661 pounds (300 kilograms). The modification is also available in kit form, which will increase the useful load of those aircraft by 441 pounds (200 kilograms).
“The response has been very good because we are basically delivering value and the capability that the operators are looking for,” said Roberto Garavaglia, senior vice president of strategy and business development for AgustaWestland. “This has been developed by listening to the operators, to what they require, and answering to that demand.”
For more details on the AW139’s maximum gross weight increase, watch the video above.
