Brazilian operator Omni Helicopters International (OHI) is growing its fleet with an order for a pair of Leonardo’s AW189 rotorcraft and one AW189K. The deal announced on Tuesday will add to the eight AW139 helicopters and two AW189s it has previously acquired from the Italian manufacturer since 2021.
The AW189K is powered by a pair of Safran’s latest Aneto-1K turboshaft engines and will be the first of its type to operate in Latin America. The standard AW189 super medium aircraft uses General Electric’s CT7-2E1 engines. Both models feature a Safran auxiliary power unit and the main transmission can operate without oil for 50 minutes.
According to OHI, having both types in its fleet will give it flexibility to meet different mission requirements. The operator is mainly active in the offshore oil and gas sector and is preparing to support customers exploiting new reserves further from the coastlines of Brazil and Guyana. It is also looking to expand in onshore utility services, uncrewed air vehicle operations and urban air mobility.
“As we expand our fleet, we are investing in more sustainable and reliable air mobility solutions,” said OHI’s group CEO Jeremy Akel. “Our commitment to a customer-first culture drives us to adapt and innovate, ensuring we continuously advance pioneering air mobility solutions.”