AB 139 Now Has Two to Tango

Bell/Agusta Aerospace has just disclosed that the second pre-production AB 139 made its first flight at Cascina Costa on June 4. News of the maiden flight of the first AB 139, in February, was also kept quiet for days afterwards. The latest aircraft joins a test fleet that will comprise three flying pre-production aircraft and one static tie-down helicopter. The TDH has been operating since December 2000. Bell/Agusta Aerospace is aiming to certify the AB 139 in 2002, for immediate deliveries.

By Robert Hewson