AgustaWestland
AgustaWestland AW149
The AgustaWestland AW149 is a medium‑weight, twin‑engine helicopter developed by the Italian‑British manufacturer AgustaWestland (now part of Leonardo). The programme began in 2006 as a response to a growing demand for a versatile platform capable of performing both civilian and military missions. The first prototype flew on 29 June 2011 and, after an extensive flight‑test campaign, the type received its European Aviation Safety Agency certification in 2016. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67E turboshafts delivering 1,700 shp each, the AW149 offers a maximum take‑off weight of 7,500 kg, a range of roughly 900 km and a cruise speed near 260 km/h. Its spacious cabin can be configured for troop transport, medical evacuation, search‑and‑rescue, firefighting or utility work, and features a fully digital glass cockpit, fly‑by‑wire flight controls and an integrated health‑monitoring system. The helicopter’s modular design and low‑maintenance lineage make it attractive to armed forces and operators in emerging markets. Since entering service, the AW149 has been adopted by several air forces worldwide, reinforcing AgustaWestland’s reputation for delivering adaptable, high‑performance rotorcraft in the modern aviation arena today.
Classification
Production & History
- First Flight
- 2009