Eyes to the skies for HM Coastguard's new Leonardo AW189


Londoners and aviation buffs might have a rare opportunity to see HM Coastguard’s new Leonardo AW189 in action this evening (Tuesday 20 September) if the drizzle clears.  Coinciding with the European Coastguard Forum being held in London this week, the new Leonardo AW189 helicopter will fly past the International Maritime Organization (IMO) building this evening as it undertakes an urban familiarisation training flight. This flight is one of many it will embark on before it officially joins the Coastguard search and rescue helicopter fleet from April 2017.
HM Coastguard's new Leonardo AW189

Bristow Helicopters Ltd, which operates the UK SAR helicopter service on behalf of HM Coastguard, are flying a variety of training missions in preparation for the aircraft entering into service. This is to ensure both the aircraft and crew are ready to undertake vital lifesaving missions.

There is no cost to the UK Government or tax-payers for flying the AW189, until the aircraft is operating in a search and rescue role.


AW189 captured at previous familiarisation exercises

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