At Verticon 2025 (March 11-13, Dallas), a premier global helicopter industry event, Leonardo announced significant growth in the commercial market with new orders for approximately 30 helicopters across multiple models. These aircraft, valued at €370 million, will be delivered to operators in Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region between 2026 and 2028. The orders span Leonardo’s AW109 GrandNew, AW169, AW139, and AW189 models, primarily for energy industry support, search and rescue (SAR), public utility missions, and VIP transport. Additionally, preliminary contracts for 15 next-generation AW09 single-engine helicopters were signed with customers in Europe and Southeast Asia.
Energy Sector Dominates
This year’s Verticon theme centered on the energy industry, where Leonardo reaffirmed its leadership. With nearly 500 helicopters currently deployed for offshore transport and a 60% market share over the past five years, Leonardo’s AW139 and AW189 models are poised to replace older, bulkier aircraft in long-range operations. The company also highlighted advancements in pilot training, including the VxR virtual reality simulator.
Key Contracts and Market Expansion
- Gama Aviation (UK): Ordered two AW139s.
- China General Aviation Company (CGAC): Acquired three AW139s, expanding China’s civil AW139 fleet.
- Lufttransport (Norway): Signed for two AW189s for long-range missions in harsh Arctic conditions.
- Petroleum Air Services (PAS) (Egypt): Secured five skid-equipped AW169s, marking the model’s first energy sector order in this configuration.
- Sabine Harbor Pilots (USA): Will deploy two AW169s for ship pilot transport in Texas, a first in North America.
Search and Rescue (SAR) Advancements
Leonardo’s AW169 continues to gain traction in SAR roles:
- Gama Aviation (UK): Ordered three skid-equipped AW169s with increased payload capacity (5.1 tons) for enhanced rescue operations.
- Parkview Samaritan (USA): Acquired an AW169 for emergency medical transport.
- LifeFlight/StartFlight (Australia): Ordered four AW139s for medical, law enforcement, and offshore support missions.
- North Slope Borough (NSB) (Alaska): Two AW189s will perform Arctic SAR across 95,000 square miles.
VIP/Corporate Transport Growth
Leonardo’s Agusta brand strengthened its luxury transport presence:
- Sloane (UK/Ireland): Added five AW109 GrandNew helicopters.
- Aero Asahi (Japan): Ordered two AW169s for passenger transport.
- Mitsui Bussan Aerospace (Japan): Renewed distribution agreement for 11 helicopters (AW169/AW139/AW189) through 2027.
AW09 Single-Engine Momentum
The new AW09 attracted preliminary orders nearing 130 units globally, including deals with Helitech Asia (10 units) and Kaan Air (Turkey, 5 units).
Leadership Insight
Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo’s Helicopter Division, stated:
“Our focus on cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and digital integration—from maintenance to training—ensures we meet stringent safety standards while delivering unmatched value. Verticon’s announcements underscore our competitive edge and commitment to advancing our offerings.”
