Leonardo and the North Slope Borough (NSB) of Alaska are proud to announce the entry of two new AW189 super medium helicopters. The advanced aircraft, specifically outfitted with specialized EMS interiors, are set to significantly elevate the capabilities of the North Slope Borough’s Search and Rescue (SAR) and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) across its expansive 95,000 square-mile service area, located entirely above the Arctic Circle.

These state-of-the-art AW189 helicopters will replace the Borough’s current helicopter fleet (one Bell 412 and one Sikorsky S92.  Ed) and operate continuously, day and night, to perform essential missions. These missions include SAR operations to locate and assist distressed individuals, Emergency Medical Services that provide immediate medical care to those injured or critically ill, Inter-Facility Medical Transport to transfer patients between medical centers, and Emergency Supply Transport.

“Leonardo Helicopters is honored to collaborate with the North Slope Borough in the enhancement of their critical life-saving capabilities,” said Enrico Canal, Head of Macro Area Sales N&C America at Leonardo Helicopters.

“The AW189, distinguished by its advanced technology and robust design, is exceptionally equipped to operate in the demanding Arctic environment. Hence, it serves as a vital asset for the North Slope Borough in their life-saving missions.”

The AW189 helicopters, featuring advanced Full Icing Protection Systems (FIPS), are ideally designed to withstand the unforgiving Arctic climate. This capability guarantees safe and reliable operation in extreme conditions, including heavy ice and snow, even when winter temperatures plunge to a staggering -40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Combining these sophisticated technologies and mission capabilities ensures that the NSB can provide timely and effective responses to emergencies in this remote and challenging environment, ultimately enhancing the safety and well-being of the communities it serves.

“There is no doubt that operating and maintaining helicopters in the far north of Alaska has its challenges. When time is of the essence in responding to emergent situations, helicopters are a necessity, as they have served our people well since the North Slope’s inception,” said Heather Dingman, Search and Rescue Director at North Slope Borough.

“The North Slope Borough’s leadership team is confident that the acquisition of two AW189 helicopters will improve current availability to the residents of the North Slope, and we are honored that Leonardo will be part of our story.”

The additions reinforce Leonardo’s and the North Slope Borough’s unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of its Alaskan residents and significantly strengthen the capabilities of its dedicated SAR team to serve remote communities in the challenging Arctic environment.

Over 140 AW189s have been ordered by operators worldwide to date, with 90 of them already in service. The type has been chosen and is in service performing long range, high-capacity rescue missions with many leading operators also in the North Sea and in the Mediterranean Sea as well as in Southeast Asia and the Far East. After around 10 years since its certification, the AW189 remains the world’s leader in the super-medium helicopter class by market size, number of operators, countries, and applications including search and rescue, emergency medical service, firefighting/disaster relief, offshore transport, law enforcement and passenger transport. The AW189 is growing its presence in existing customers’ fleets as well as being selected by all new operators, particularly in the public service and energy markets.