Leonardo AW169

The Leonardo AW169 is a twin-engine helicopter that is similiar yet smaller and lighter than the AW139 and AW189 medium helicopters. The first prototype flew in 2012 and utilises many of the same internal systems as its bigger siblings reducing development costs in addition to maintenance costs for operators of multiple types. The AW169 has enjoyed civilian and miliary success, as a utility helicopter, the type can hold up to 10 people or 7 in a VIP role. A dedicated military version has been developed as the AW169M which has a full multirole ability and is able to conduct missions from troop transport to SAR and surveillance. 

Uni-Fly have flown off-shore helicopter operations since they were founded in 1970 and was the first company in the world to carry out off shore operations for wind turbines, including hoisting crew directly on to them. In addition to specialist off shore helicopter operations the company also undertakes airborne inspection work of infrastructure together with aircraft maintenance. Uni-Fly operate a fleet of AW169 and EC120 helicopters which are based out of Humberside Airport in the UK and Andersen Airport in Denmark. 

Uni-Fly will be providing one of their bright red AW169’s for static display at this year’s Air Tattoo. This will be the first time the company has exhibited one of its helicopters configured for off shore turbine hoisting operations at RIAT.  

Photo Credit: Tom Gibbons