AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce that Kaan Air has signed an additional preliminary order for one AW169 light intermediate twin-engine helicopter and a contract for one AW139 intermediate twin engine helicopter for VIP/corporate missions. The contracts follow the one signed by the customer just two months ago for two AW169s and one AW139, highlighting the prominence of the AW139 in the Turkish VIP/corporate transport market and the growing success of the new generation AW169 in Turkey.

The rapid success of the AW139 and the initial response of the Turkish market to the new AW169 provide is a result of their outstanding performance and suitability for the demanding Turkish operating environment. AgustaWestland sees significant future prospects for the AW139 and AW169, as well as its other commercial products in Turkey, where there is  strong market demand.

AgustaWestland is the market leader in Turkey with more than 60% market share of the turbine commercial helicopter market in recent years, achieved with a significant contribution from the distributor Kaan Air.

Currently there are three AW139s operating in Turkey where the aircraft’s high performance, cabin size and modern safety features are recognised as key advantages over the competition. A fourth AW139 will be delivered to a VIP customer soon.

With three aircraft already in flight test with over 100 flight hours accomplished and a fourth prototype scheduled to join the programme in early 2013, the AW169 programme is on schedule to achieve civil certification in 2014 with deliveries commencing in 2015.

The AW169 cabin can accommodate up to 10 passengers or up to seven passengers in VIP configuration. The AW169 can be equipped with a cabin noise and vibration reduction system as well as a range of advanced in-flight entertainment and cabin lighting systems. When combined with the finest hand crafted materials the AW169 cabin will offer outstanding levels of comfort for passengers.

The AW169 is powered by two 1000 shp class PW210A turboshaft engines enabling the aircraft to cruise at more than 140 knots and provide vertical Cat.A/Class 1 capability as maximum all up weight, even in hot conditions. The AW169 is being certified in accordance with EASA CS-29 / FAR Part 29 latest Amendments and will be the only helicopter in its class to meet the very latest safety standards.

More than 70 AW169 helicopters have now been ordered for a wide range of missions including, air ambulance, law enforcement, corporate transport, utility and offshore transport.

The AW139 is the new benchmark for executive helicopters. Designed to meet the rigorous standards of those who demand the best, the AW139 surpasses all other medium twin-engine helicopters in capability, speed, ride quality and passenger cabin space. Its sleek design, state-of-the-art avionics, luxurious accommodation and low noise signature sets new standards in the market.

The AW139 delivers best-in-class performance with a cruise speed of 165 knots (306 kph), and superior performance for range, endurance and hovering. With its power reserve, the AW139 assures Category “A” (Class 1) performance from a helipad (elevated or at ground level) at maximum take-off weight.

With the largest passenger cabin in its class the AW139 can accommodate its passengers in a spacious, comfortable and quiet environment. The unobstructed cabin design allows maximum flexibility for seating configurations whilst providing its passengers with excellent visibility through the six large cabin windows. Ample room is available for accessories such as telecommunications, work areas, refreshments and stowage space.

More than 500 aircraft are now in service performing many roles including EMS/SAR, offshore transport, VIP/corporate transport, law enforcement and military transport. More than 180 customers from almost 60 countries have ordered nearly 670 AW139 helicopters so far.

Kaan Air, which was founded in 2000 within the structure of Başarı Holding, is AgustaWestland’s authorised distributor for civil helicopters in Turkey. A fleet of over 20 AgustaWestland helicopters including the AW119Ke, AW109 Power, GrandNew and AW139, are now operating in Turkey performing a wide range of roles including VIP and corporate transport, air ambulance, utility, aerial tours and filming. Kaan Air headquarters is located in Istanbul where it has its own dedicated heliport and maintenance complex to support its growing number of customers.