Frequently Asked Questions?
What is Leonardo known for and what helicopters does it produce?
The Italian Leonardo (formerly AgustaWestland) is a trendsetter in the VIP helicopter segment. The lineup includes the light AW109 GrandNew and AW119Kx, the new single-engine AW09, the mid-size AW169, the best-selling AW139, and the heavy AW189. The AW139 has become the standard for corporate and government transportation, with over 1,200 helicopters produced. Interiors are finished by Italian ateliers, including the Agusta by Hermès.
Which Leonardo should I choose: AW109, AW139 or AW169?
The AW109 GrandNew is a high-speed (289 km/h) seven-seat helicopter for city transfers and flights up to 700 km. The AW169 is the golden mean: 8-10 seats, 820 km range, and cabin space without entering the heavy-duty class. The AW139 is the flagship: up to 15 seats, a range of 1,060 km, two pilots, and maximum VIP comfort; it is the choice of government aviation squadrons in more than 40 countries.
How reliable are Leonardo helicopters and what about service?
The AW139 is certified to the stringent FAR-29 standards with a 30-minute dry-running capability—the fleet has logged over 4 million flight hours, including offshore and search and rescue missions. PT6C engines are serviced worldwide. Leonardo authorized centers operate in Italy, the UAE, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, making scheduled maintenance accessible to operators in Central Asia.
How does the Leonardo hold its value on the secondary market?
The VIP-configured AW139 is a scarce commodity: the waiting list for new helicopters stretches for two to three years, so new helicopters sell for between $85 and $95 million above the list price (14 to $16 million). Ten-year-old AW139s sell for between $8 and $10 million. The AW109 is liquid in Europe and the Middle East (3.5 to $6 million, depending on the year). The AW189 market is weaker—it's a niche class, and its exposure is longer.
What country is Leonardo from, how old is the brand, and how many helicopters were produced?
The Leonardo (formerly the AgustaWestland) is an Italian manufacturer; the Agusta's helicopter heritage dates back to 1923. The flagship AW139 has produced over 1,200 helicopters and has become the standard for corporate and government transport in more than 40 countries.
Where can I get Leonardo helicopters serviced in the CIS and surrounding areas?
Leonardo authorized centers operate in Italy, the UAE, Turkey, and Azerbaijan, making scheduled maintenance accessible to Central Asian operators without having to travel to Western Europe. Pratt & Whitney engines are serviced under global programs.
What guarantees does Leonardo provide for a new helicopter?
The factory warranty on the airframe and components typically lasts 2–5 years, depending on the model and configuration. Engines are covered by manufacturer programs. Extended support packages with predictable hourly service costs are available.
What is the waiting period for a new Leonardo?
VIP versions of the AW139 are built to order, with a waiting list of 2-3 years due to shortages and custom interiors; lighter AW109/AW119s are delivered faster. Faster helicopter delivery is possible from an existing slot or on the used market.
How much do Leonardo helicopters cost: price guide?
AW109 GrandNew — ~$6 million new (from $2.5 million with flight time), AW139 VIP — $12–16 million, ten-year-old AW139 — $8–10 million. Fresh AW139s sell for 85–95% of the list price due to the waiting list — rare liquidity for a helicopter.
What Leonardo models are available and how to choose the right one?
The lineup includes the lightweight AW109/AW119 (7 seats, city transfers), the new AW09, the mid-size AW169/AW139 (8–15 seats), and the heavyweight AW189. The AW109 is the aircraft of choice for high-speed transfers, the AW169 for VIP flights with 8–10 seats, and the AW139 for maximum comfort and status.
