Leonardo has announced that its AgustaWestland AW169 light intermediate twin-engine helicopter has been certified by the FAA, clearing the way for deliveries to U.S. customers to begin this year. In the U.S., the AW169 is focusing primarily on the VIP and EMS sectors.

The AW169 — which received EASA certification in July 2015 — is part of the family of 4-9t helicopters that includes the AW139 and AW189 models, which possess the same flight characteristics and safety features, as well as sharing a common cockpit layout, design philosophy and maintenance/training concept.

Over 20 AW169s have been delivered to date to customers around the world for a range of applications including emergency medical service, executive/private transport, utility, offshore transport and wind farm support. The company says it has orders and options for 150 machines.

An AW169 Level D full flight simulator, delivering advanced pilot training, has been certified and is in operation at the Leonardo Training Academy in Sesto Calende, Italy.