Helicopter - Anti-icing for AW189 - AIN Alert

Full Anti-icing Gear Coming Soon on AW189

AgustaWestland will continue icing trials this winter in Alaska on the AW189 in pursuit of certification of the full icing protection system (Fips) for the super-medium twin helicopter. The helicopter model received certification in 2014 and is currently available only with limited icing protection, similar to the icing protection system installed on the smaller AW139 medium twin. Certification of the full icing protection system is anticipated by the middle of next year, a spokesman told AIN. AgustaWestland noted that any operating restrictions currently imposed on the AW189 could be eliminated “in the near term.” The AgustaWestland Fips will allow flight into known icing conditions. The package includes ice detectors, automatic activation system with manual backup, electrical power generators, engine intake protection grids and heated windshield and blades (main and tail rotor). Helicopters equipped with Fips will retain the performance and procedures for Category A operations and will not be subject to any restrictions during IFR operations.