Helicopter operator NHV has hailed the performance of its Leonardo AW169 aircraft following its introduction to the UK oil and gas sector.
Flying out of Blackpool, the aircraft has been servicing offshore firms in the East Irish Sea, with Spirit Energy and ENI among its clients.
The AW169 is seen as perfect solution for the region, given the limitations of some offshore helidecks.
The state-of-the-art aircraft is the latest generation twin-turbine helicopter, featuring class-leading performance and a versatile capability in the most demanding operating conditions.
Gareth Bithell, Chief Pilot at NHV Blackpool says, “The AW169 is a very capable aircraft in the offshore shuttle environment, and in poor conditions, as it is rated to sea state 6, it also has strong ditching capabilities and has flown in 60kt winds.
"At NHV, we find it can handle strong winds and turbulence with ease.”
The AW169 avionics system uses the very latest technology in the rotary-wing industry with its design entirely managed in-house by the helicopter manufacturer, Leonardo. The AW169 features the most modern platform in the light-intermediate category, incorporating very intuitive touch screens instead of control panels, making a huge weight and space-saving.
The Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) mode is a great feature, allowing pilots to run one engine without the rotor blades turning, providing electrical power to systems to allow for a safer and quieter turnaround when required.
With the pandemic challenging all business operations, NHV nevertheless enjoyed a successful 2021 and beginning of 2022, reaching over 1,550 flying hours with the AW169 from Blackpool.