Leonardo Search and Rescue Helicopter Completes U.S. High Altitude Trials

A team of pilots and engineers tested the high-altitude capabilities of the AW101 helicopter in Colorado at Buena Vista and Leadville, which sits nearly two miles above sea level (9,933 feet msl at the airport, KLXV).

Michael Wildes

Monday, October 31, 2022 at 04:07 PM ET

Verified

The Norwegian AW101 All-Weather Search and Rescue helicopter, built by Leonardo, undertook high altitude trials in the United States to demonstrate an increase engine power and raise the Main Gear Box torque rating. [Courtesy: Leonard]

Key Takeaways:

Leonardo's Norwegian AW101-612 All-Weather Search and Rescue (AWSAR) helicopter successfully completed high-altitude trials across the U.S.
The trials, conducted in Colorado, demonstrated increased engine power and raised the main gearbox torque rating to 117%, significantly expanding the helicopter's high-altitude performance envelope.
Described as an "astounding success," the testing was completed efficiently in 16 days, ahead of the planned 21-day schedule.
This helicopter is part of Norway's order for 16 AW101 AWSAR units and will be prepared for delivery to the Norwegian Ministry of Justice and Public Security.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Leonardo’s Norwegian AW101-612 All-Weather Search and Rescue (AWSAR) helicopter successfully completed high-altitude trials across the U.S. late last week, according to the Italian aerospace and defense company.

The trials included demonstrating an increase in engine power and raising the main gearbox torque rating. The gearbox is responsible for lowering an engine’s high input speeds and transferring the appropriate torque to a helicopter’s rotors and some engine accessories.