Avincis: First operator to log 5k AW169 flight hours
5,000 up and counting. Avincis has become the first AW169 operator to log over 5,000 flight hours.
Avincis, the European emergency aerial services provider, has become the first operator to log more than 5,000 flying hours on the Leonardo AW169. The helicopter passed the milestone on a HEMS operation in the Västra Götaland region of western Sweden.
One of 12 AW169s in the Avincis fleet, which totals about 210 helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft, the helicopter entered service in June 2018. Since then it has performed 9,000 missions. The model operates from three bases in Sweden.
John Boag, group CEO, Avincis said the operator was proud to be the first in the world to exceed 5,000 hours and 9,000 missions on the AW169. “This aircraft has proved to be extremely reliable and robust, like older sibling the AW139, and a great choice for our HEMS customers in Sweden and in Italy,” said Boag.
“We have been able to achieve this through close collaboration with Leonardo, who provide us with excellent customer service for our AW fleet. I look forward to seeing the AW169 fly many more hours and save many more lives in the future.”
All the operator’s AW169s are fitted with specific equipment to support our lifesaving missions. Modifications include customised HEMS cabins and additional external lights installed to improve the operational efficiency and safety for operations.
Stefano Villanti, senior vice president, Marketing, Sales and Contracts, Leonardo Helicopters congratulated Avincis on the 5,000 flight hours achievement. “It shows the established professionalism and capabilities of the operator as well as the reliability and effectiveness of the AW169 to deliver in demanding operational, weather and environment conditions for critical life-saving duties,” he said.
Avincis is the largest provider of emergency aerial services in Europe and has additional operations in Africa and South America. The operator focuses on HEMS missions, air ambulance services, search and rescue, aerial firefighting, as well as dedicated aerial transport for offshore energy installations.
Meanwhile, don’t miss our exclusive interview with Giacomo Zampetti, vice president, Marketing, Leonardo Helicopters on how the manufacturer plans the design of its civil helicopters.
