Flight-testing of the Bell/Agusta AB139 is progressing well, with
more than 800 flight hours logged by three pre-production aircraft,
the third of which has flown well over 300 flight hours. Production
ramp-up has begun.
Principal target markets for the AB139 are offshore, EMS, law
enforcement and corporate operations. Recently the Integrated
Coast Guard Systems (ICGS) program has expressed interest for
its speed, comfort, reserve power margins, and space for crew,
passengers, and survivors.
Bell/Agusta plans to gain European JAR-29 certification by summer
2004, followed by FAA certification shortly thereafter, with deliveries
beginning immediately. Don't rush to order one though- the waiting
list is already two years long.
