AgustaWestland AW119 Koala
The AgustaWestland A119 " Koala " is a achtsitziger lighter multi-purpose helicopter with a gas turbine for the civilian market. It is the heaviest single-engine helicopter in its class and represents an entry-level variant of the Agusta A.109
Development
As a cheaper Einturbinen Helicopter Agusta developed a stripped down version of the A.109. So the layout of a turbine has been taken, however, omitted. Next was to dispense with the retractable retractable landing gear and skids used instead. Its cabin is 30% larger than those helicopter in its class. The passenger cabin holds two lying stretchers or six passengers. So was 1994, the first prototype will be completed. However, this was used for static testing. In February 1995, the second prototype was able to complete the first flight successfully. After difficulties with the Turbomeca Arriel 2K1 - turbine Agusta moved to the proven Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6B turbine. After conversion, the prototype could be certified for the Italian aviation authority RAI and in February 2000 by the U.S. FAA in July 1999. Thus, the series production began at the plant Verigate in Italy. For the African market Denel Saab Aerostructures in Kempton, South Africa has set up a second production line for the final assembly. The improved AW119Ke has been weight-optimized with a revised aerodynamics and plastic blades.
Variants
- A119 " Koala "
- AW119Ke " Koala "
- AW119Kx " Koala " with Garmin G1000 avionics