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Kopter AW09
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Kopter AW09
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The Kopter AW09,[3] rebranded in Leonardo AW09,[4][5] (formerly the Marenco Swisshelicopter SKYe SH09 and Kopter SH09) is the Leonardo small civil helicopter division's five-to-eight seat, single-engine multirole helicopter which is currently under development at Kopter’s facilities.[6][7][8][9] It is a clean-sheet design amongst a market sector dominated by decades-old airframe designs.[10]

Key Information

The first prototype P1 first flew on 2 October 2014. P2 in February 2016, P3 during November 2018. There have been ongoing delays in first flight of prototypes and TC/commercial deliveries deadlines.[11]

On 8 April 2020, Italian manufacturer Leonardo announced the closing of the acquisition of Kopter Group AG (Kopter) from Lynwood (Schweiz).[12][13][14] The purchase price consists of $185 million, plus earn out. At the time Kopter employed 320 people.[15]

On 21 April 2021 Leonardo rebranded the SH09 single-engine helicopter as the AW09.[4][3][5]

Development

[edit]

History

[edit]

In 2002, Martin Stucki, a mechanical engineer and commercial helicopter pilot, initiated design work on a design that led to the SH09.[16] Frustrated by legacy designs and typically unsuited cockpits, Stucki had observed that the light single-engine helicopter market had not seen any all-new designs in decades, and he conducted market research that indicated a viable demand for a new rotorcraft in the 2.5-tonne class. In 2007 he formed Marenco Swisshelicopter (Marenco - from Martin Engineering and Consulting) to develop the rotorcraft.[16]

The SH09 adopted several modern features. Its airframe is entirely composed of carbon composite materials; it employs a shrouded fenestron tail rotor and a high-visibility cockpit.[16] The carbon composite construction allowed a relatively low empty weight. According to Mathias Senes, Marenco's chief commercial officer: "There’s no other material today that brings the benefits of rigidity, strength, and light weight".[16] Stucki approached his design from a pilot's perspective, attempting to improve ergonomics, comfort, and operator requirements. It possesses excellent hot and high performance, lengthy flight endurance, a low noise signature, and has relatively smooth handling.[16]

By 2009, sufficient financing had been secured from investors, which allowed for the SH09 to be formally launched that year; accordingly, the helicopter was given the designation SKYe SH09 in reference to the year that development on the project officially commenced.[16] A small number of staff worked on the project, initially being a team of nine; an emphasis was made on recruiting very high quality engineers, including from other rotorcraft manufacturers such as Airbus Helicopters; the company had over 100 employees in 2016. Company operations in Switzerland have been split between the towns of Pfäffikon, where design work is centered, and Mollis, where assembly and flight testing operations are conducted; a third facility in Germany handles compliance verification.[16]

A pre-production prototype of the SH09 was displayed at Heli-Expo 2011 in Orlando, Florida, marking its public introduction.[17][18] At that time, Marenco stated that it planned to make first deliveries in 2015, and that it would produce as many as 15 SH09s within the first year as well as potentially rising to 30 rotorcraft in the following year. It was also stated that, while the Honeywell HTS900 turboshaft engine had been selected as the initial powerplant for the SH09, it was hoped that customers would soon be offered a choice in engines.[10]

In May 2016 a company representative indicated that Marenco was pursuing the development of a twin-engine version of the design.[19] In late 2016, Stucki stated that some flexibility to allow for the future adaption of the SH09 to become a twin-engine helicopter had already been incorporated into the base design, and indicated that a twin-engine variant was a straightforward progression.[16]

In January 2018 the company was rebranded as Kopter, with the helicopter name changed to SH09 (dropping the SKY-e).[20]

In February 2018, Kopter was seeking to raise CHF 150 million to carry it through certification to production in the second half of 2019, adding to the CHF 270 million already spent since 2007 by the Russian Mamut foundation.[21]

Prototypes

[edit]

The flight test program will use three prototypes (P1, P2 & P3) and two Pre-Series Aircraft 4 and 5 (PS4 & PS5). PS4 & PS5 will jointly serve for the certification flights.[22][16][23] P1 was used to complete the first phase of the flight test program, proving the handling and attitude of the aircraft, and expanding the flight envelope, including autorotation tests and being flown to 97 per cent of its maximum internal load takeoff weight. P2 and P3 are the main vehicles for airworthiness certification testing; they are more representative of production aircraft, their design incorporating several refinements.[16] The company plans to first certify SH09 with EASA, then rapidly seek certification in the United States.[16]

P1

[edit]

In March 2011, Marenco planned P1's first flight for early 2012,[24] During December 2013, the completed P1 was revealed to the public.[25] but it actually first flew on 2 October 2014.[26][18] The first flight lasted 20 minutes and was flown by chief test pilot Dwayne Williams.[26][27] At that time the company projected receiving EASA certification within 12-16 months.[23] In summer 2015, Marenco halted flight tests after 100 flight hours to focus on producing the second prototype, which incorporated a modified bearingless rotor head and new rotor blades to reduce vibrations.[28][29] By September 2015, it was recognised that the original development timeline had been optimistic.[30] The completion of P1 was reportedly delayed by as much as six months due to the late delivery of its engine by Honeywell.[31]

P2

[edit]
HB-ZXB then Marenco Swisshelicopter

On 26 February 2016, P2 performed its first flight, piloted by new chief test pilot Richard Trueman. At this point, certification was expected to be achieved near to the end of 2016 or during early 2017.[32]

P3

[edit]
Kopter HB-ZXC in 2021 during a tethered test run

In May 2016, it was reported that Marenco were increasing the pace of the flight test program, that P3 was to be completed within that year, and that type certification should occur during 2017. Marenco had 70 Letters of intent in autumn 2015 and 90 in spring 2016, half from North America.[33] In September 2015 the company stated its expectation to produce 40-100 aircraft per year.[16][34]

In October 2016, Stucki stated that P3 would be completed in early 2017, and that certification would likely occur within 2018.[35] Development was delayed by having to design and manufacture not only the helicopter itself, but also supporting tools such as test equipment.[34][36][16] P3's first flight finally occurred in November 2018.[37]

PS4 & PS5

[edit]

In January 2019 Kopter stated that PS4's first flight would be in 2019,[38][39] but in March 2021, Kopter stated that first flight of PS4 would be in third quarter of 2021 and PS5 some months later.[40] In January 2023, Kopter stated that the first flight of PS4 would be in the first quarter of 2023 and PS5 to follow later in 2023.[41]

Type certification & commercial deliveries

[edit]

In March 2011, Marenco planned its first deliveries in 2015.[24] In May 2016, it was reported that Marenco that type certification should occur during 2017.[33] In October 2016, Stucki stated that certification would likely to occur within 2018.[35] In January 2018 the company stated its hope that the rotorcraft would enter service in 2019.[42] During the 2018 Heli-Expo, Kopter announced 23 firm orders and 11 options worth $119 million from Norwegian Helitrans (12+6), Elling Halvorson for Rainier Heli Lift, Hawaiian Paradise Helicopters and South African Safomar Aviation.[43]

Design

[edit]

The SH09 is a light-medium helicopter, initially intended to be powered by a single Honeywell HTS900 turboshaft engine. It uses a shrouded fenestron tail rotor and the main rotor features a five-bladed bearingless hub; the shrouded tail rotor has a wider diameter and a thinner chord in order to increase airflow, while design aspects such as a narrow tail boom, swept-back tips on the main rotor blades, and the shrouded tail rotor offer reduced noise.[44][16] The HTS900 is rated at 1,020-shaft-horsepower, and was intended to provide improved performance in hot and high conditions.[16]

The monocoque fuselage is made from composite materials and is equipped with sliding side doors on either side along with a rear clamshell door; it incorporates a series of floor-mounted windows between the pilots' seats for additional vertical visibility.[16][23] Some of the composite materials used have been produced using out of autoclave composite manufacturing from suppliers such as TenCate[45] and Gurit.[46] According to Marenco, inspiration for the fuselage's design was drawn from the automotive industry.[10] It has been stated that the firm has sought to introduce the cabin volume of medium-sized twin-engine helicopters to the single-engine market.[23]

The SH09 is offered with various different layout configurations. The standard option provides two pilot seats forward and four passenger seats aft, all adjustable fore/aft and up/down.[16] In a high density configuration, five seats are installed in the rear position along with two more passenger seats inline with the pilot's own, which loses the option of the floor window. The use of Kevlar-threaded crashworthy fuel tanks, which are built into the wall and floor of the cargo hold, freed up space to allow for fully adjustable passenger seats in the cabin. The cargo hold is sized to accommodate 10 items of baggage, while the fuel tanks are sized to provide for an endurance of nearly five hours.[16] The rear clamshell door and high-mounted tail boom were designed for air ambulance applications.[16]

The SKH09 cockpit layout provides a generous field of view.[16] A Sagem-built ICDS-8A glass cockpit suite is an integrated part of the SH09's standard avionics and instrumentation package.[47][10] The rotorcraft has been designed with a condition-based maintenance policy, specifying that there should be no time between overhaul (TBO) limits on its various components and systems, including the engine; instead, maintenance is performed based upon condition, which is continuously monitored at all times by an onboard health and usage monitoring system (HUMS).[16] Ease of maintenance and access to systems was an active consideration during the design phase, aiming to deliver lower overall maintenance costs.[16]

In January 2023 Leonardo announced that the helicopter would be powered by the Safran Arriel 2K engine in place of the originally planned Honeywell powerplant.[48]

Variants

[edit]

Base variant

[edit]

The base variant is optimised for a multi-mission system. Among the roles it is designed to fulfil are:[49]

  • Passenger transport
  • Utility
  • EMS (emergency medical service)
  • Security / police missions

Derivatives

[edit]

Proteus UAS

[edit]
Main article: Leonardo Proteus

In 2025, Leonardo unveiled a UAS that takes most part of the design of the AW09 Kopter.[50][51] This is a military drone.

The first flight is planned for mid-2025. The contract for the design was signed in June 2022.[50]

Operational history

[edit]

It was announced at Heli-Expo 2016 that Swiss operator Air Zermatt would serve as the SH09's launch customer.[52]

Specifications (SH09)

[edit]

Data from Leonardo helicopters [53]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 1 (potentially 2)
  • Capacity: Up to 8
  • Length: 13.13 m (43 ft 1 in)
  • Height: 3.74 m (12 ft 3 in)
  • Volume: 6.5 m3 (230 cu ft)
  • Empty weight: 1,300 kg (2,866 lb)
  • Max takeoff weight: 2,850 kg (6,283 lb) with internal load, 3,000 kg (6,614 lb) with external load
  • Fuel capacity: 750 liters (198 US gallons), 600 kg (1,323 lb)
  • Rotor systems: 5 blades on bearingless main rotor, shrouded 120 cm tail rotor [34]
  • Powerplant: 1 × Safran Arriel 2K dual FADEC turbine engine , 750 kW (1,006 hp) [54][53]
  • Main rotor diameter: 10.96 m (35 ft 11 in)

Performance

  • Cruise speed: 260 km/h (160 mph, 140 kn)
  • Never exceed speed: 280 km/h (174 mph, 151 kn)
  • Range: 800 km (500 mi, 430 nmi)
  • Endurance: 5 hours
  • Service ceiling: 6,100 m (20,000 ft) available with EASA RFM Revision 2 from mid-2025
  • Take-off and landing max. altitude: 4,900 m (16,000 ft) available with EASA RFM Revision 2 from mid-2025
  • Sling-load: 1,500 kg (3,307 lb)
  • Temperature range: -40°C to +55°C (-40°F to +131°F)

Avionics

See also

[edit]

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Kopter AW09

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from Grokipedia
The AW09 is a next-generation, single-engine helicopter in the 2.8-metric-ton class, designed for multi-role operations with seating for one pilot and up to eight passengers, offering versatility across missions such as passenger transport, emergency medical services, utility tasks, and security. Developed initially by the Swiss company Kopter Group AG as the SH09, the program advanced through multiple prototypes, with the first flight occurring on 2 October 2014 and subsequent prototypes flying in 2016 and 2018, but faced delays including a 2018 ground testing halt due to a casting issue and a 2025 main gearbox nonconformance resolved after proper heat treatment of components. Leonardo S.p.A. acquired Kopter in April 2020 for $185 million plus performance-based earn-outs, integrating the project into its helicopters division and rebranding it as the AW09 in April 2021 to align with its AgustaWestland (AW) nomenclature. Key features of the AW09 include a Arriel 2K engine delivering 1,006 shaft horsepower with dual full-authority digital engine control (), a five-blade composite main rotor system for low noise and vibration, and a G3000H for advanced . It boasts the largest cabin and volumes in its category, with a flat floor, high ceiling, and configurable doors (sliding on one side, clamshell on the other) enabling rapid mission reconfiguration, while emphasizing reduced fuel consumption, simplified maintenance, and high modularity for hybrid or electric upgrades in the future. Performance specifications highlight a maximum speed of 260 km/h (140 knots), a range of 800 km (430 nautical miles), an endurance of up to five hours, and a sling-load capacity of 1,500 kg, with a of 2,850 kg internally and over 3,000 kg externally. In March 2025, Leonardo Helicopters resumed with the PS5 following the gearbox resolution. On 14 August 2025, the first production-conforming (S6) achieved its . Supported by additional crews and mechanics to accelerate the program, is targeted for late 2025, with initial deliveries to follow and nearly 130 preliminary sales contracts already secured from global customers as of March 2025. This positions the AW09 as the first all-new single-engine helicopter design in over four decades, aiming to fill a market gap between light and medium twins with enhanced safety, digitalization, and operational efficiency.

Development

Origins

The origins of the Kopter AW09 trace back to , when Swiss mechanical engineer and commercial pilot Martin Stucki initiated a personal project to design a modern single-engine , driven by his dissatisfaction with the limitations of existing legacy designs in the light utility segment. Stucki's vision focused on creating a clean-sheet that would incorporate advanced materials and innovative features to enhance safety, efficiency, and versatility, addressing shortcomings he observed during his piloting career. In 2007, Stucki formalized his efforts by founding Marenco Swiss Helicopters in Mollis, , to advance the project. The program received its official launch in 2009 under the designation SKYe SH09, marking the transition from conceptual sketches to structured development with an initial of engineers. The initial design goals emphasized a multirole platform in the 2.5-ton class, capable of seating 5 to 8 occupants, with a modular cabin layout allowing quick reconfiguration for missions such as passenger transport, , or utility operations. This approach prioritized superior through a full-carbon-fiber for , enhanced performance including better hover efficiency and range, and operational cost savings compared to competitors like the , while maintaining single-engine simplicity. Early progress was supported by private investments that enabled the assembly of a core development team and initial prototyping efforts, culminating in the program's formalization by 2010. These milestones laid the groundwork for the project's evolution, leading to the construction of the first in 2014.

Prototype Flights

The development of the Kopter SH09 helicopter, originally conceived in 2009 as a clean-sheet single-engine design, progressed to construction in the early . The first , designated P1, was powered by a HTS900 engine and conducted its on October 2, 2014, from Mollis airfield in . This initial sortie focused on hover testing and establishing the basic , confirming the stability of the all-composite and bearingless main system. Following refinements to address early observations, the second prototype, P2, was rolled out in and achieved its first flight on February 26 of that year, also at Mollis. Equipped with a modified bearingless rotor head and new rotor blades to mitigate vibrations identified in P1, P2 expanded the testing regime to include higher speeds, altitudes, and maneuvers for system validation, such as avionics performance and transmission loads. These flights helped validate the core design while accumulating data for . The third prototype, P3, was introduced in 2018 with further design iterations, including enhanced integration for improved pilot and data handling. P3's occurred on November 22, 2018, emphasizing low-speed handling and capabilities. By early 2019, the three prototypes had collectively surpassed 100 flight hours, with P3 alone contributing over 50 hours in and additional testing in to reach altitudes up to 10,000 feet and speeds of 135 knots. During this phase, minor challenges like vibration damping in the rotor system were identified and addressed through iterative modifications to the blades and gearbox mounts, ensuring smoother operation without compromising performance. Throughout prototype testing, the HTS900 remained the selected engine, delivering 1,020 shp for the intended 2.8-tonne MTOW, though evaluations of alternative turboshafts were conducted to assess potential improvements in and maintenance costs. These efforts underscored the SH09's focus on low-vibration, quiet operation suitable for civil missions.

Leonardo Acquisition and Rebranding

In April 2020, Leonardo completed its acquisition of Kopter Group AG from Lynwood (Schweiz) AG for a fixed purchase price of $185 million on a cash- and debt-free basis, plus an earn-out mechanism tied to milestones in the SH09 program. This transaction integrated Kopter into Leonardo's Helicopters division, positioning the Swiss firm as a for light development while allowing it to retain operational autonomy at its Moliken facilities. The move strengthened Leonardo's portfolio in the single-engine segment and provided resources to advance the SH09 amid ongoing development efforts that had faced prior technical delays. Following the acquisition, Leonardo conducted a comprehensive program review of the SH09, which resulted in a modest adjustment to the service-entry timeline while committing to European certification by early 2024. Efforts also focused on stabilizing the , building on resolutions to earlier component challenges such as the main gearbox supplier issue, to ensure reliable progression toward production. In April 2021, as part of its full integration into the Leonardo lineup, the helicopter was rebranded from SH09 to AW09 to align with the company's established AW-series nomenclature for . To further enhance the AW09's performance, Leonardo announced a strategic partnership with in January 2023 for the integration of the Arriel 2K turboshaft engine as the primary propulsion system. This collaboration aimed to leverage the engine's proven reliability and efficiency, supporting the program's goals for versatility and reduced operating costs in civil and utility roles. Although the timeline was subsequently delayed due to technical refinements, these post-acquisition initiatives solidified the AW09's path within Leonardo's ecosystem.

Certification and Recent Progress

The certification process for the Kopter AW09, now under Leonardo Helicopters, advanced significantly in 2024 with the initiation of formal type certification efforts under (EASA) CS-27 rules. EASA's Panel 1 team conducted its first certification flights on the AW09 prototype in June 2024, marking the start of official involvement following earlier development testing. At that time, Leonardo targeted completion of type certification in 2025, with entry into service projected shortly thereafter, though the program has faced multiple delays from prior engine supplier changes and supply chain challenges. A key milestone in 2024 was the unveiling of a VIP-corporate configuration mock-up at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) in May, showcasing a deluxe four-passenger cabin layout with modular seating options and an exclusive Agusta-branded paint scheme to appeal to the luxury transport market. This display highlighted the AW09's versatility beyond utility roles, integrating advanced connectivity features demonstrated earlier at Heli-Expo 2024. In early 2025, encountered a setback due to a nonconformance in the main gearbox, specifically improper of a gear component supplied by a new vendor, prompting a five-to-six-month pause starting in late 2024. Testing resumed in March 2025 with the PS5 , incorporating retrofitted components for enhanced safety and reliability, which confirmed performance expectations during subsequent flights. Production progress accelerated later that year, with the of the first serial-production-representative aircraft, S6, occurring in August 2025 at Leonardo's Vergiate facility in , advancing the industrialization phase. These developments, including ongoing EASA evaluations, support the certification program targeted for late 2025 amid rigorous safety validations. Market expansion efforts complemented technical progress, with the appointment of Helitech Asia PTE LTD as the exclusive distributor for (covering , , , the , , and ) in May 2023 remaining active into 2025. In October 2025, a full-scale AW09 cabin mock-up was shipped to for display, hosted by Helitech Asia to engage regional customers and secure preliminary sales contracts. Additional distributorships, such as Aero Facility in in June 2024, further broadened the global network supporting certification and commercialization.

Design

Airframe

The Kopter AW09 helicopter features a fully composite airframe constructed from carbon and Kevlar materials, enabling substantial weight savings compared to traditional metallic structures while enhancing durability and crash resistance to meet the most stringent modern safety standards. This construction incorporates energy-absorbing elements and crashworthy fuel tanks, contributing to overall occupant protection during impacts. The houses a versatile five-to-eight seat cabin designed with modularity in mind, allowing rapid reconfiguration for roles such as passenger transport, (EMS), or utility missions through features like swiveling and foldable seats, a multi-attachment prepared floor, and unobstructed access via dual sliding side doors and rear clamshell doors. The cabin provides the largest interior volume in its class for single-engine helicopters, exceeding 6.50 m³, with a flat floor and high ceiling that maximize space utilization and passenger comfort. Key dimensions of the include an overall length of 13.13 m and height of 3.74 m, creating a compact yet expansive optimized for multi-mission flexibility. The tail section employs an enclosed with 10 unevenly spaced blades, which minimizes external levels and enhances by shielding the rotating components from ground hazards and personnel. This design integrates seamlessly with the 's five-blade main rotor system. The structure supports robust external load operations, with a sling load capacity of up to 1,500 kg and maximum takeoff weights rated at 2,850 kg for internal configurations and >3,000 kg for external loads, facilitated by a reinforced cargo hook and .

Rotor System and Propulsion

The AW09 features a five-blade, fully articulated main rotor system constructed from advanced composite materials, providing a of 10.96 meters for enhanced lift and maneuverability in its 2.8-tonne class. This design minimizes vibrations through optimized blade geometry and damping, contributing to a smooth flight experience and reduced during extended missions. The bearingless hub configuration further improves reliability by eliminating traditional bearing wear points, while maintaining high in hover and forward flight. Propulsion is provided by a single Arriel 2K engine, rated at 750 kW (1,006 shp) for maximum takeoff power, which was selected in January 2023 to replace the original HTS900 for superior performance, , and reduced emissions. The engine incorporates dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control () with an auxiliary backup system, enabling precise power management and automatic optimization across the transmission for consistent torque delivery under varying conditions. The main drives the rotor at a nominal speed, with recent 2025 modifications addressing a manufacturing nonconformity in a supplier component to enhance overall reliability and safety margins. The anti-torque system employs a shrouded with 10 unevenly spaced composite blades of variable pitch, housed in a faired for compact integration and protection. This configuration provides precise yaw control with low external noise signatures, complying with stringent environmental standards, and generates additional thrust in forward flight through aerodynamic fairing design. Fuel efficiency is supported by a crashworthy with a capacity of 750 liters (600 kg), enabling a maximum of five hours at optimal cruise settings, which extends operational range to over 800 km while minimizing logistical demands. The Arriel 2K's advanced and reduced specific fuel consumption further contribute to this capability, allowing sustained missions without frequent refueling.

Avionics and Systems

The Kopter AW09 features a state-of-the-art glass cockpit equipped with multifunction displays (MFDs) and an integrated flight management system (FMS), designed to reduce pilot workload through optimized equipment integration and enhanced situational awareness. The avionics suite centers on the Garmin G3000H integrated flight deck, which is instrument flight rules (IFR)-capable and includes synthetic vision technology (SVT) as an option for improved visibility in low-light or obscured conditions, along with a helicopter terrain awareness and warning system (HTAWS) to mitigate controlled flight into terrain risks. This suite also incorporates an autopilot system, contributing to safer operations across diverse missions. For mission adaptability, the AW09 employs a modular and cabin design that supports quick reconfiguration for roles such as (SAR) with hoist integration or security operations using () systems, facilitated by its adaptable layout and digital connectivity for in-flight data offloading. The includes a and usage monitoring system (HUMS) to track component performance and enable , enhancing operational reliability. Safety is bolstered by redundant flight controls and a crash-resistant fuel system integrated into the composite structure, which meets enhanced bird-strike resistance standards and provides protection in impact scenarios. Looking ahead, Leonardo plans post-certification upgrades to the AW09 in the late 2020s, including a hybrid-electric demonstrator to improve and environmental performance while leveraging the existing architecture.

Variants

Civil AW09

The civil AW09 is designed as a versatile single-engine helicopter for non-military applications, primarily serving in passenger transport, emergency medical services (EMS), utility and sling operations, and VIP or executive transport roles. Its adaptable cabin layout enables rapid mission reconfiguration, supporting operations such as aerial surveying, search and rescue, and cargo delivery in challenging environments. The accommodates one pilot and up to eight passengers in a standard configuration, with quick-removable crashworthy seats that allow conversion to cargo hauling or EMS setups featuring a medical and equipment storage. and a clamshell rear door on the starboard side facilitate easy access and loading, while the flat-floor cabin provides ample space for passengers or litters. Targeted for civil certification under EASA CS-27 rules, with FAA validation planned, the AW09 emphasizes low operating costs through its efficient Arriel 2K engine and dual-channel system, which optimize fuel consumption and simplify maintenance routines. flight testing with EASA commenced in June 2024, aiming for type approval in late 2025; as of November 2025, is ongoing. Positioned as the first all-new single-engine helicopter design in over 40 years, the AW09 competes directly with established models like the Bell 407 and Airbus H125 by offering superior cabin volume, legroom, and multirole versatility in the 2.8-ton class. In 2024, Leonardo unveiled a dedicated VIP variant of the AW09 at EBACE, featuring luxury leather interiors, advanced noise attenuation for quieter flights, and enhanced ergonomic seating for corporate and executive comfort. This configuration sets a new standard in the single-engine VIP segment with its spacious, customizable cabin options.

Proteus UAS

The UAS was unveiled by Leonardo in January 2025 as a unmanned aerial system derived from the AW09 airframe, designed as an uncrewed system to integrate with crewed platforms for enhanced operational flexibility. Key modifications to the base design include the removal of the to enable full , integration of electro-optical/ (EO/IR) sensors for versatility, advanced autonomous flight controls powered by AI and algorithms, and optimizations for extended endurance tailored to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The system incorporates a modular compatible with two NATO-standard pallets, allowing rapid reconfiguration for diverse mission sets. The planned its first flight in mid-2025, with the demonstrator emphasizing beyond-visual-line-of-sight (BVLOS) operations to validate autonomous navigation and control in real-world scenarios; as of November 2025, is ongoing. Intended military roles encompass for maritime and land-based ISR, light strike capabilities through interchangeable armaments, and potential integration into swarm operations for distributed tactical advantages. Development of the represents a joint effort between Leonardo and Kopter, building on the shared heritage of the civil variant, with certification pathways pursued under programs like the Ministry of Defence's Rotary Wing Uncrewed Air System Capability Concept Demonstrator Phase 3A for armed forces in and .

Operators

Launch Customers

In March 2016, Swiss helicopter operator Air Zermatt became the launch customer for the then-designated SKYe SH09, placing a firm order for one with options for three more, intended for (EMS) and utility roles in the challenging high-altitude environment of the . This commitment marked a significant early endorsement for the program, though deliveries were subsequently delayed due to ongoing certification processes. Air Zermatt's involvement extended beyond the initial order, as the operator played an instrumental role in the SH09's design development, providing key insights that influenced refinements for operational needs in alpine conditions. Subsequent early expressions of interest from European operators highlighted the helicopter's potential for (SAR) and training missions; for instance, Norwegian firm Helitrans placed a firm order for 12 units in 2018, while Swiss-based Alpinlift Helikopter AG signed on as a launch customer for one in 2017. By 2019, Kopter had secured memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with several firms, including U.S.-based Metro Aviation for five SH09s, reflecting growing interest in civil applications despite certification setbacks. These agreements incorporated customer feedback on features like cabin modularity, enabling adaptable configurations for high-altitude and multi-role operations. Amid financial and developmental challenges in 2019, Kopter intensified efforts to lock in pre-acquisition commitments, amassing firm orders for over 70 units alongside tentative interest for 100 more, which helped sustain the program leading into Leonardo's 2020 takeover.

Orders and Deliveries

In March 2025, Leonardo announced preliminary sales contracts for more than 15 AW09 units to customers in and , including 10 from Helitech Asia for markets such as , , and , five from Kaan Air, and five from Synerjet. These agreements contributed to the program's order book reaching nearly 130 units by mid-2025, surpassing earlier targets of 100 orders by year-end amid expanded distributor partnerships now totaling eight worldwide. The distributor network has grown significantly since 2023, with Helitech Asia appointed to cover multiple Southeast Asian countries including the , , and , alongside other partners like Synerjet Latina for South American markets. This expansion supports Leonardo's strategy to penetrate regional operations where the AW09's single-engine efficiency offers cost advantages for missions like passenger transport and tasks. As of November 2025, no commercial deliveries have occurred, with the program still in following EASA's initiation of validation activities in mid-2024. First deliveries are projected for 2026 after type , expected in late 2025, with production ramping up at Leonardo's Vergiate facility in and Kopter's Swiss site in Mollis. A main gearbox nonconformity identified in early 2025 briefly paused but was resolved without impacting order commitments or leading to cancellations, maintaining momentum in sales progress.

Specifications

The following specifications are preliminary and subject to final , expected in late 2025.

General Characteristics

The Kopter AW09 is a light designed for a single pilot, with optional dual-pilot configuration, and offers seating for up to eight passengers in addition to the crew. Its compact yet versatile utilizes advanced composite materials for enhanced strength and reduced weight. The is engineered with a modular interior layout, providing flexibility for various mission configurations while maintaining a spacious cabin environment. Key physical specifications include a five-blade main rotor of 10.96 m, an overall length (with rotors turning) of 13.13 m, an overall height (with rotors turning) of 3.74 m, and a maximum width of 3.01 m (excluding the main rotor). The helicopter has a of 2,850 kg for internal loads, and 3,000 kg for external loads via sling. It is powered by a single Arriel 2K engine with dual full-authority digital engine control (), derated to deliver power in the 1,000 shp class at maximum takeoff (750 kW or 1,006 shp). Fuel capacity stands at 600 kg (750 liters at 0.8 kg/L density), supporting extended operations. The cabin provides the largest volume in its single-engine class for 2.8-ton helicopters, exceeding 6.5 m³, which enables efficient or cargo accommodation with quick reconfiguration options.
SpecificationValue
Crew1 (2 optional)
Passenger CapacityUp to 8
10.96 m (35.94 ft)
Overall Length (rotors turning)13.13 m (43.07 ft)
Overall Height (rotors turning)3.74 m (12.27 ft)
3.01 m (9.88 ft)
(internal)2,850 kg (6,284 lb)
(external)3,000 kg (6,614 lb)
Powerplant1 × Safran , derated to 1,000 shp class
Fuel Capacity600 kg (1,323 lb)
Cabin Volume>6.5 m³ (>230 ft³)

Performance

The Kopter AW09 exhibits strong characteristics, achieving a maximum cruise speed of 260 km/h (140 kts). These speeds enable efficient transit for missions such as passenger transport and utility operations, balancing velocity with the helicopter's lightweight composite structure and five-blade rotor system. In terms of range and endurance, the AW09 offers a maximum range of 800 km (430 nm) and up to 5 hours of endurance with standard fuel tanks. This capability supports extended operations in diverse environments, from offshore support to , without frequent refueling. Payload performance is a key strength, with a sling capacity of 1,500 kg. This enables versatile cargo and external load missions, such as aerial lifting or emergency . Efficiency is enhanced by the Arriel 2K engine's optimization, resulting in a low fuel burn rate that contributes to cost-effective missions and the extended endurance profile. The dual system further improves fuel management, reducing operational costs compared to previous-generation single-engine helicopters.

References

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