The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Panel 1 team has successfully conducted its first certification flights on the Leonardo AW09 helicopter according to Kopter, the company’s Switzerland-based subsidiary.
“This significant milestone follows the familiarization flights previously undertaken by the EASA flight test team,” Kopter said in a statement.
“We look forward to this close collaboration with EASA for the future flight assessments, which will take place at key points throughout the programme to validate our testing results and ensure the AW09 meets all necessary certification requirements.”
The Leonardo AW09 is a single-engine, clean-sheet entry to the 2.5 metric ton class, with a crashworthy composite structure and fuel tank, low-vibration main rotor and low noise signature shrouded tail rotor architecture.
The aircraft will be fitted with an instrument flight rules (IFR)-compatible Garmin G3000H avionics suite, a flat cabin floor and multiple arrangements with up to eight individual crashworthy passenger seats, Kopter said.
The company has positioned the Leonardo AW09 as a multi-mission platform with air medical capabilities, thanks in part to its clamshell doors that permit medical stretcher and cargo loading, and a unique high-ceiling cabin concept.
The company aims to complete type certification of the AW09 in 2025.
