Leonardo is offering both on-the-ground wireless and real-time, in-flight connectivity on its in-development AW09 single. The system will allow automatic wireless data porting on the ground or live in-air transmission of health usage and monitoring (HUMS) data from the helicopter.
The system is being developed in cooperation with Spidertracks, Safran Helicopter Engines, and Garmin. It can work in concert with a Spidertracks solution or independently with another provider via a convenient plug-in port for live in-flight tracking and data transmissions, as well as enabling in-cabin Wi-Fi.
Offloaded data will be transmitted directly to Leonardo and Safran Helicopter Engines. The heart of the system is the Garmin GDL 60 datalink, which weighs less than 2.3 pounds. That unit connects directly to the AW09’s Garmin G3000H avionics suite via Wi-Fi or cellular to facilitate the exchange of data, including flight plans and avionics system and database updates.
The data exchange is designed to be completely transparent for both Leonardo and the customer. “It is not just about putting a technology piece of technology or equipment on the helicopter. It's about what we can do with the data and how we can simplify the life of the client,” a company spokesman told AIN.
Leonardo plans to offer the basic on-the-ground solution as standard equipment on the AW09; however, customers will be able to expand that with optional additional services such as 24/7 predictive logistics, dashboard analytics, and enhanced technical support via Leonardo Digital Services. The company said the exact details of those offerings are pending.
The system already has undergone ground tests and will fly for the first time aboard the AW09 PS5 test aircraft that is expected to make its first flight soon. It will join aircraft PS4 in completing the AW09’s certification requirements. AW09 certification is expected around mid-2025.
Currently, Leonardo holds 60 commitments for the AW09 and will sell the helicopters through approved dealers. The AW09 is powered by a 1,000-shp Safran Arriel 2K engine and has a cruise speed of 140 knots, maximum range of 430 nm, and seating for up to nine in a flat floor, quick-change cabin.
Leonardo envisions the helicopter as a credible competitor for light twins serving the passenger, utility, law enforcement, and medevac markets. Last year, Leonardo signed an agreement with U.S.-based Metro Aviation to develop air ambulance interiors for the AW09 and support its introduction into the American market. A mockup of the medevac-outfitted AW09 is on display this week at Heli-Expo.