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

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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 performance trials in Colorado, U.S.
The trials demonstrated increased engine power, raised the main gearbox torque rating to 117%, and expanded high-altitude takeoff, landing, and engine failure recovery capabilities.
A cross-departmental team of pilots and engineers efficiently completed the 21-day testing plan in just 16 days.
The helicopter, part of an order for 16, will be delivered to the Norwegian Ministry of Justice and Public Security after further processing in the U.K.

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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.