- 17 Oct 2022
- AvBuyer
- Engines - BizAv
As the current production model of the long-established AW109 line of light twin-engine turbine helicopters, Leonardo markets the AW109SP GrandNew as the fastest helicopter in its class, combining its speed advantages with performance, payload capacity and the highest of safety standards.
Operators seeking pre-owned AW109SP GrandNew helicopters for sale will find several examples available on the market. Price examples include $4.5m for a 2012 model, $5.5m for a 2014 model, and $6.5m for a 2015 model, per Aircraft Bluebook’s spring 2021 data. These values represent the average retail price for each model year listed. The actual sale price of an individual aircraft may differ from the average, however, depending on several things – including its maintenance condition, how many hours remain on the airframe and engines before the next overhaul is due, and more. An eventual sale price will ultimately be negotiated between the buyer and seller, based on aircraft-specific details.
There are a range of other potential options in the same category as the Leonardo AW109SP GrandNew, including the Bell 529, which can carry up to eight passengers and is powered by two Pratt & Whitney PW207D1B engines.
Leonardo emphasises the AW109SP GrandNew’s “smooth ride and high comfort levels” as appealing specifically to VIP/Corporate operators, adding that the highest safety standards are attained through the crashworthy seats, airframe and fuel tanks, and by the provision of excellent One Engine Inoperative (OEI) flying abilities.
The key difference between the Agusta A109S Grand and today’s Leonardo AW109SP GrandNew is that the GrandNew introduces a more advanced avionics package, and has a composite airframe.
Leonardo AW109SP GrandNew Helicopter Overview
By Gerrard Cowan - Editor, Aircraft Reviews
The AW109SP GrandNew was certified ten years ago and has made a mark on the VIP and corporate markets, with operators including Ireland’s QME Mining Equipment Ltd. It can hold up to 6-7 passengers and 1-2 crew members, and has a maximum range of 464nm.
As of the end of 2020, 220 AW109SP GrandNew models had been produced, according to JETNET data.
What features does the Leonardo AW109SP GrandNew offer?
The AW109SP GrandNew is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW207C engines. It offers a glass cockpit suite that is designed to help reduce pilot workload, and provides excellent external visibility.
The aircraft has a state-of-the-art navigation suite built upon a dual Flight Management System, while it also incorporates an advanced digital dual-duplex 4-axis autopilot. The aircraft’s avionics include a digital map system, enhanced vision system, and a range of other features.
What came before and after the Leonardo AW109SP GrandNew?
The Leonardo AW109SP GrandNew is the most recent member of a longstanding, prominent family of commercial helicopters now known as the AW109 range. It is the current production model of a line that began life as the A109 in the 1970s, powered by two Allison Model 250-C20 engines.
The AW109SP GrandNew replaced the A109S Grand on the production line, but Leonardo also offers the AW109 Trekker today (which provides operators with fixed landing skids and the ability to operate in more challenging environments.
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