LCI has announced a framework agreement for up to 21 of the latest-generation helicopters from Leonardo, comprising ten firm plus 11 options.
The innovative new framework agreement covers the latest-generation light-intermediate AW169, intermediate AW139 and super-medium AW189 helicopters, which will collectively address industry renewal and replacement requirements.
The new helicopters will be delivered through to 2028 and will be aimed at a variety of missions including emergency medical services (EMS), search and rescue (SAR), offshore energy, including wind. The helicopters will be strategically allocated between LCI and SMFL LCI Helicopters, LCI's joint venture with Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing Company, Limited (SMFL).
These new helicopters will offer superior performance, flexibility and lower CO2 emissions than comparable types and other transportation modes, thereby helping operators to reduce their carbon footprint whilst maintaining mission-critical and life-saving operations.
In addition, they will be equipped with the latest suite of navigational and safety features and will also be cleared to use sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) in the future, leveraging the certification standards already obtained by Leonardo for SAF use.
