AgustaWestlands AW101 and AW159 Lynx Wildcat helicopters play star roles in Skyfall, the 23rd James Bond adventure, which had its world premiere in London on Oct. 23. Staring Daniel Craig as James Bond, Skyfall sees the AW101 helicopter performing several dramatic sequences in the film.
Quintessentially British, James Bond, is one of the worlds best known and most successful movie characters ever, said Ray Edwards, managing director for AgustaWestland, so we are delighted to have partnered with this iconic brand in its 50th year. Our new technology and high performance AW101 and AW159 helicopters, [which] are built in Britain, fit perfectly with the Bond image.
The flying sequences were flown by AgustaWestland test pilots and required precise flying due to the proximity to the film set and camera helicopter. Almost 15 hours of flying was required to rehearse and film all the scenes. A team of AgustaWestland technicians also supported and modified the aircraft for filming at the various locations in the UK earlier this year.
The AW101 is a new generation three-engine helicopter that can be used for a wide range of military and government applications and can carry up to 40 troops. The AW159 is the latest helicopter to enter service with the UK Ministry of Defence for operation by the Army and Royal Navy.
AgustaWestland and Eon Productions, the production company which produces the James Bond film series, are now exploring opportunities for AgustaWestland rotorcraft to feature in the 24th James Bond movie.
