The AW169 is a new twin-engine helicopter type designed to meet the growing market demand for a versatile and multi-role 4-tonne class rotorcraft. Engineered to satisfy the operational and mission requirements of the most demanding parapublic and commercial operators, the AW169 employs new technologies to achieve unique adaptability across multiple applications with very competitive economics.

The AW169 is the first brand-new helicopter in this class in decades and is the natural complement to the AgustaWestland highly successful commercial product line. With the addition of the AW169, AgustaWestland is able to deliver a uniquely competitive and comprehensive offering of multi engine helicopters in the fast growing market for three to seven-tonne maximum weight categories.

The unique characteristics of the AW609 Tiltrotor combine the benefits of a helicopter and a fixed wing aircraft into one aircraft. Taking off and landing vertically, flying above adverse weather conditions with up to nine people in comfort in a pressurised cabin at twice the speed and range typical of helicopters, the AW609 represents the next generation of aircraft transport for civil (both private and commercial operators), government and para-public roles. This multi-role aircraft can be configured for passenger transport, search and rescue, law enforcement, maritime surveillance, training and government applications. The AW609 will be certified for instrument flying in known icing conditions and features a composite fuselage and wings, an advanced glass cockpit and full fly-by-wire digital controls. These advanced technologies will provide new levels of performance, reliability and affordability for future operators.

Applications

» COAST GUARD 

The performance characteristics of the AW609 offer coast guards capabilities and cost-effectiveness simply not available in any other single aircraft. The AW609 offers coast guard operators highly cost-effective and time efficient point-to-point transportation at speeds up to 275 knots and ranges up to 700 nm.

» EMS/SAR 

Built by Aeronca Aircraft Corporation, the Champ first flew in 1944, having been designed in tandem with the 11AC Chief—the Champ with tandem seating and joystick controls, and the Chief with side-by-side seating and yoke controls. The intention was to simplify production and control costs by building a pair of aircraft with a significant number of parts in common; in fact, the two designs share between 70% and 80% of their parts. The tail surfaces, wings, landing gear, and firewall forward—engine, most accessories, and cowling, are common to both airplanes.

Selling for $2,095, the Champ outsold the Chief by an 8 to 1 margin. Engine upgrades in 1948 and 1949 resulted in the Models 7DC and 7EC. Between 1945 and 1950, Aeronca was producing 50 light aircraft per day and by the time production ended in 1951, the company had sold more than 10,000 Champions.

Aeronca ceased all production of light aircraft in 1951, and the Champ design was sold in 1954 to Champion Aircraft.