Champagne corks were popping in the AgustaWestland chalet yesterday as the Anglo-Italian manufacturer announced a trio of deals for a total of 15 aircraft. The largest order is for 10 A119 Koalas which will go into service with Tex-Air Helicopters in the offshore oil market. The first batch of three aircraft will begin deliveries later this year.
Tex-Air operates 38 aircraft, based in the Gulf of Mexico and until now has maintained a fleet of five to six-seat helicopters. The eight-seat Koala was selected following a lengthy evaluation process.
Massimo Pugnali, executive vice president of Agusta Aerospace, says: "The Koala is well suited for the demanding offshore mission and we are excited to have Tex-Air as our launch customer. We look forward to providing them with the best single turbine helicopter and the best helicopter support in the Gulf of Mexico."
Bell/Agusta also inked a two-aircraft contract yesterday for two AB139s. Evergreen International will operate the aircraft in utility and offshore roles and becomes the eighth offshore operator to sign up for the medium twin.
Terrific
The Japanese national police agency (JNPA) completed the terrific day for AgustaWestland by confirming the selection of the A109 Power for a three-aircraft requirement, with deliveries beginning by year-end.
The JNPA says the aircraft will be used for patrol, troop transport and search and rescue missions by police departments in Hiroshima, Fukushima and Niigata.
The selection is part of the JNPA's replacement programme for its fleet of about 40 Bell 206Bs and came after stiff competition from the Eurocopter EC135 and the Kawasaki Heavy Industries BK117.
Source: Flight Daily News
