Leonardo launches the Agusta brand as the ultimate expression of sophistication and technology in the VIP helicopter sector

Leonardo has announced the launch of a new initiative to strengthen its world leadership position in the field of VIP / corporate transport helicopters, paving the way for new and advanced sustainable solutions for air mobility in the field of vertical flight. Starting today, Agusta becomes the representative brand of Leonardo's philosophy and distinctive values ​​in terms of design, technology and services in the rotary wing sector for executive transport applications.

Leveraging on the tradition of an iconic name strongly present in the industry, and at the same time a symbol of a commitment to stay on the frontier of innovation, Agusta is a unique combination of unparalleled performance, comfort and refined Italian style. Leonardo is committed to providing operators today and in the future with unparalleled customized solutions. These solutions will include new dedicated operational services, new configurations for interiors and fittings and new customization possibilities in the VIP transport sector.

Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director of Leonardo's Helicopter Division, said: "Through Agusta we give our VIP operators a solid, easily recognizable brand with which they can identify, a characteristic that embodies their pursuit of excellence and quality with a personal and distinctive touch that must also include their experience of flying. We want those who benefit from this experience to feel themselves before take-off, during the flight and upon arrival at their destination, distinguishing themselves from the others. The strength and recognizability of the Agusta brand are still alive in this particular market segment ”.

Ever since the arrival of a popular helicopter like the A109 fifty years ago, 'speed and elegance' have been clear examples of recurring words among operators to define a helicopter and an experience. The significant growth and evolution of the wide range of highly successful solutions in all civil and public utility uses over the decades has led 'Agusta' to become synonymous

features such as unparalleled performance, aerodynamic care, advanced technologies and high levels of customization. This is even more true and constant over time precisely for passenger transport tasks.

The announcement of the launch of the new VIP brand took place during the official inauguration of the new helicopter terminal of Leonardo and Falcon Aviation Services in Dubai, deliberately named Casa Agusta. The terminal will facilitate mobility to and from the Expo 2020 area. An AW609 convertiplane and its 1: 1 scale cabin in VIP / corporate configuration will be on static display near Casa Agusta for a limited period. The first appearance of the AW609 tiltrotor in the Middle East with its official presentation in Dubai coincides with the worldwide commercial launch of the revolutionary aircraft pending civil certification.

The idea of ​​Casa Agusta is based on a totally new concept that combines the landing pad with exhibition areas and lounges, all in a single heliport based within a city. This concept will support the development of a network of point-to-point connections for both urban and inter-city transfers, while aiming to satisfy the growing demand for modern and sustainable mobility as well as for greater accessibility to urban areas. Users and passengers in the VIP and charter transport sector will obtain a level of service typically available only in the facilities present in the largest private airports far from the center and urban areas. Casa Agusta presents a solid eco-sustainable design, modular and with the use of recyclable materials. If required, the terminal can be dismantled, transported and reassembled elsewhere. The major UAE operator Falcon Aviation Services will use the terminal to provide the best helicopter transport services.

The experience must generate the sensations of the Agusta brand before each take-off and landing. To this end, Leonardo has developed an ideal infrastructure, present at the beginning and at the end of each journey. A modern, modular, sustainable and refined terminal that satisfies the evolution of air mobility with adaptable spaces and areas dedicated to both business and relaxation. Through the combination of this extraordinary infrastructure and the revolutionary AW609, capable of guaranteeing the versatility typical of vertical flight and the high performance of a turboprop airplane, what Leonardo is presenting in Dubai today embodies the vision of a future for the company. distant for modern air mobility.

Alessandro Profumo, CEO of Leonardo, underlined: “The aeronautical industry of the third millennium is evolving rapidly and moving towards new forms of mobility in order to guarantee modernity, safety and sustainability. Our goal is not to build bridges for the exchange of goods and services. We intend to support the mobility of people and ideas, key elements for economic and cultural growth. Leonardo wants to be an engine of this transformation, leveraging on the skills that distinguish us: advanced technologies, professionalism, focus on people. What we announce and show here today will go a long way in supporting this evolution of mobility ”.

With a share of over 40% of the VIP twin-engine helicopter market in terms of deliveries, Leonardo is the undisputed leader in the sector. The company boasts the widest and most modern range of models and capacities than any other manufacturer, fully satisfying or even exceeding the most stringent certification and safety standards on the subject with a series of advanced technologies for navigation, mission, safety. and the cabin flight experience.

Note to editors on Falcon Aviation Services

Falcon Aviation Services was established in 2006 on the initiative of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, advisor to the President of the United Arab Emirates. Based at Abu Dhabi Executive Al Bateen Airport and Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport, Falcon Aviation provides a wide range of operational and aviation support services including energy industry assistance, maintenance-repair-overhaul of aircraft, customized charter services with business jets, helicopter air tourism, various other ground activities in the aeronautical field. Falcon Aviation has strongly established itself as a leading operator in the sector in the United Arab Emirates and the Middle East and North Africa region thanks to its commitment to quality, safety and excellence.

Leonardo launches the Agusta brand as the ultimate expression of sophistication and technology in the VIP helicopter sector