First production AW189 performs maiden flight

AgustaWestland released that the first production AW189 8 tonne class twin engine helicopter performed its maiden flight at Vergiate plant (Italy) on October10th. The aircraft is expected to be delivered to Bristow Helicopters by year end to carry out offshore transport missions in the North Sea, with operational readiness planned in early 2014. Additional two AW189 helicopters are currently under assembly in Vergiate.