AgustaWestland, a Finmeccanica company, is pleased to announce it has signed an agreement with Heli-One for the establishment of a Repair & Overhaul Centre in Vancouver, Canada. Under this agreement the Centre will provide repair and overhaul services for the AW139 fleet of the CHC Helicopter group of companies as well as for 3rd party AW139 operators. This latest deal follows the service centre network agreement signed in February this year and further strengthens the support capabilities for the AW139 and confirms AgustaWestland’s commitment to reinforcing its customer focussed strategy aimed at increasing the quality and responsiveness support levels to its growing customer base around the world. Bruno Spagnolini, Managing Director – Operations, AgustaWestland said “This latest agreement is another example of AgustaWestland’s continuing efforts to deliver the best possible support services to its customers and to enable them to maximize their mission effectiveness.” CHC, with orders placed for 33 AW139s so far, started incorporating this helicopter model into its fleet in 2005 as part of its fleet renewal and expansion plans. CHC’s AW139s carry out offshore transport, emergency medical service and search and rescue in various countries.

State-of-the-art technology, outstanding performance, low operating costs and the only helicopter in its class to meet the latest safety standards, have made the AW139 the helicopter of choice in its class. The AW139 is a new generation medium twin-engine helicopter offering unparalleled performance, capacity and safety. It meets the most stringent civil and government standards, including the latest FAA and EASA FAR/JAR Part 29 amendments. Ergonomic design, excellent handling characteristics and low vibration levels significantly reduce pilot fatigue and enhance comfort. Two powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67C engines with FADEC deliver a high power-to-weight ratio maximising safety in any operational condition, including Cat A, Class 1 hot and high sorties. The standard configuration provides seating for twelve to fifteen passengers in a large and bright 8.0m3 cabin with excellent ease of access and egress by large sliding cabin doors.

Heli-One provides comprehensive maintenance, repair, overhaul and support services. With over fifty years experience supporting CHC & 3rd party customers in more than 35 countries, Heli-One has the experience and flexibility to support operators around the world operating in any number of challenging situations. Heli-One is a Transport Canada and EASA approved maintenance organization. In addition to servicing the oil and gas industry CHC also provides search and rescue services to government agencies in Ireland, the UK and Australia.