AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce an order for two AW119Ke single engine helicopters by Kestrel Aviation, a privately owned helicopter operator based in Mumbai, India. The AW119Ke helicopters, both in VIP configuration, will be delivered to Kestrel Aviation during the last quarter of 2013 and will join two others of the same model already in service.

Configured for VIP transport tasks the AW119Ke offers outstanding performance, cabin space and comfort normally only available on twin-engine types. Up to six passengers can be seated in the main cabin with easy access via a large sliding door on each side of the aircraft. A large baggage bay is located behind the main cabin.

Nearly 230 AW119 helicopters have been sold in more than 30 countries to over 100 customers. It is a top-of-the-range helicopter in the single engine market and has excellent performance. The helicopter, with a maximum gross weight of 2,850 kg (6,928 lb), is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6B-37A engine that is rated at 1002 shp (747 kW) for take-off, delivering exceptional performance in hot and high conditions as well as a class leading maximum cruise speed of 152 knots (282 km/h). The AW119Ke is perfectly suited to perform many tasks including VIP/corporate transport, utility, fire fighting, EMS, offshore transport, law enforcement and government duties.

Nearly 50 AgustaWestland commercial helicopters have been sold in India in the last six years comprising AW119 Koala, AW119Ke, AW109 Power, Grand, GrandNew and AW139 models. OSS Air, an AgustaWestland Authorised Service Centre, provides local support including maintenance, spares and training services from its main bases in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.