It seems barely a month goes by when I am not writing a news item related to another of Leonardo’s AW139 entering service with a new operator. This time it is Penzance Helicopters which this month has relaunched its Isles of Scilly service, flying from Penzance direct to Tresco and St Mary’s using an AW139.
The helicopter is regarded by many operators as the best in its class and has set the benchmark for passenger safety and comfort. The AW139’s exceptional cabin area and low-noise signature mean that passengers will be ale to enjoy the impressive coastal scenery on the way to the islands during the 15-minute flight.
Although originally due to arrive in March, the service was delayed due to export restrictions and control measures for COVID-19. But the introduction of the aircraft had been much anticipated. Jeremy Awenat, Managing Director of Sloane Helicopters, operator of the service, explains: “We are delighted to be introducing into service the state-of-the-art AW139 helicopter.”
“The helicopter link delivers significant socio-economic benefit to the Isles of Scilly and West Cornwall – especially as the area rebuilds its tourism industry – and is a crucial service to visitors and locals alike. While awaiting delivery of the helicopter we have maintained the service by operating with a fleet of interim aircraft but the AW139 is our helicopter of choice. We are looking forward to sharing the many benefits that it offers with passengers and the local community.”
Having sold more than 1,150 examples by the end of 2019, Leonardo’s Aw139 continues to go from strength to strength in reaffirming its place as the most successful global helicopter programme of the past 15 years. At last count, more than 280 operators in over 70 countries were operating the type which resulted in a second production line being established to support the one in Vergiate, Italy. Currently, AW139s also roll off the line in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and neither facility shows any signs of slowing production down for the time being. Many customers simply state that for them, the AW139 has no rival.
