Pakistan chooses Leonardo AW139 for transport and EMS needs

Pakistan has signed a contract with Leonardo-Finmeccanica for an undisclosed number of AW139 helicopters, the company announced Thursday.

The twin-engine helicopters will be used for transport and EMS missions, Leonardo said in a statement.

Pakistan is one of several countries who have chosen or a already operating the AW139 for a range of government roles, including Italy, Ireland, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Thailand, the company said.

The helicopter has one-engine inoperative capabilities, even in hot and high operating conditions, making the aircraft well suited to operate in harsh temperatures and high altitudes.

An advanced integrated cockpit minimizes pilot workload.

The company also announced this week that the Italian coast guard has ordered two more of the helicopters.

Italian coast guard orders two Leonardo AW139 helicopters
Rome (UPI) Aug 4, 2016 - The Italian coast guard has ordered two more Leonardo-Finmeccanica AW139 helicopters, the company announced Thursday.

The order increases the coast guard's AW139 fleet to 12, with options for two more of the helicopters, Leonardo said in a statement. The initial contract was awarded in 2010.

The aircraft will perform maritime patrol, search and rescue, and emergency medical service missions.

More than 960 AW139 helicopters have been ordered from nearly 240 customers in more than 70 countries, the company said.

The Italian AW139s feature external rescue hoists, cargo hooks, wire strike protection systems, search and weather radar and other features.

It also features a spacious cabin to accommodate crews, equipment and survivors.

It is also used by the Italian state police, the customs and border agency and the country's air force.