Italian manufacturer Agusta expects to gain certification of its new A119 Koala single engined helicopter by the end of July, with first delivery due in September to an unnamed civilian customer.
The A119 is Agusta's first turbine single in this popular sector of the market. "Everyone who needs space, but not two engines, will be interested in this aircraft," says Agusta. Priced at $1.78 million for the basic model, the A119 is claimed to be "30% larger than any existing lightweight single-turbine helicopter".
The prototypes have flown about 300h, the first powered by a Turboméca Arriel 1 turboshaft. The second prototype and subsequent production aircraft have a Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6B-37 engine. Maximum cruise speed will be 140kt (260km/h), range 630km (340nm), and the aircraft will carry seven passengers and a pilot, plus baggage. To date, Agusta has 20 Koala orders.
The UK's Sloane Helicopters has placed a $14 million order for four A109 Powers, bringing to seven the number of twin turbines it has on firm order. Its first A109 is due for delivery at the end of March.
Source: Flight International
