Leonardo announced that Sino-US Intercontinental Helicopter Investment of China has signed contracts for 15 AW139 intermediate twin engine helicopters, and the signing of a Heads of Agreement for a mix of an additional 160 helicopters and new in-country support and training.
The Heads of Agreement includes a purchase and delivery plan for 160 units in a 2019-2023 timeframe plus the establishment of a Leonardo Authorised Training Academy and a Completion & Customisation Centre.
The 15 aircraft, which will be delivered between 2019 and 2021, will be used by Kingwing General Aviation to perform EMS (Emergency Medical Service) missions in China.
These latest orders, strengthening the collaboration between Leonardo and Sino-US in China, build on existing contracts for EMS helicopters signed by Sino-US in recent years which include 34 AW119Kx single engines, 24 AW139s and 25 AW109 Trekkers.
Over 185 Leonardo helicopters, of various types, have now been sold to Chinese customers for a range of both commercial and public services. This includes the Company maintaining its leading position in the EMS market with a 70% market share.
With further deliveries planned over the next few years, Chinese civil operator Kingwing will become one of the largest operators of Leonardo helicopters worldwide.
The announcement was made during the China International Import Expo in Shanghai in the presence of the Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development, Labour and Social Policies Luigi Di Maio.
This is a subscription only section
Want to read more? It's only €10/year.
No account yet? Just Create an account first and head to the shop