AW09
SINGLE [R]EVOLUTION
AW09: THE PERFORMANCE OF A TWIN-ENGINE HELICOPTER AT THE COST OF A SINGLE-ENGINE
Positioned in the 2.8 metric ton class, the AW09 stands out as the only all-new single-engine helicopter design introduced in the last four decades. Engineered with cutting-edge technologies and advanced materials, it sets a new benchmark in its category. Key features include a crashworthy composite structure and fuel tank, an IFR-capable Garmin G3000H avionics suite, a low-vibration main rotor, a shrouded tail rotor for reduced noise, and exceptional cabin flexibility to accommodate a range of mission profiles.
The cabin’s modular design maximizes the flat floor, class-leading cabin volume, and innovative high-ceiling concept, allowing for versatile configurations. It accommodates up to eight individual crashworthy passenger seats and provides unobstructed rear access for equipment and medical stretchers via clamshell doors. Leveraging its adaptable layout, the AW09 serves as a highly versatile vertical lift platform, ideal for a wide range of missions.
The AW09 offers outstanding payload and sling-load capabilities, driven by the reliable Safran Arriel 2K 1,000 shp class turbine. The engine’s fuel efficiency, combined with the helicopter’s crashworthy fuel tank, enables the AW09 to achieve a maximum range of over 800 km (432 nautical miles) or a maximum endurance exceeding 5 hours. With its dependable engine performance and extended operational reach, the AW09 delivers versatility for a wide range of missions.

NEXT GENERATION TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY
> Designed according to the latest safety standards, including unique bird-strike capability
> State-of-the-art IFR-ready glass cockpit with Garmin G3000H with built-in connectivity
> Advanced rotor design for superior manoeuvrability and smoothness
> Low-noise shrouded tail rotor for enhanced safety on ground
UNMATCHED CABIN VERSATILITY
> Composite airframe with high-ceiling and spacious cabin
> Removable flat floor with individual crashworthy seats
> Comfortable access through dual sliding and clamshell doors
OUTSTANDING CAPABILITIES
> Dual-channel FADEC Safran Arriel 2K turbine
> High-capacity fuel tank and low fuel consumption ensuring ultra long range capability
> Exceptional flight handling characteristics for a smooth and stable flying experience
The AW09 design incorporates all enhancements identified during the extensive flight test campaign conducted with the initial prototypes, which are currently being flown with pre-series aircraft.
Key optimizations include a new main rotor configuration, a redesigned tail rotor, and the integration of the Safran Arriel 2K engine. Additionally, the modified landing skids and optimized fuel system enable a larger cabin with an extra seat. The enlarged windows and a new aerodynamic package further improve the AW09’s ride quality and stability.

Technical Data Characteristics
Maximum Take-off Weight (MTOW) – Internal | 2,850 kg / 6,284 lbs |
Maximum Take-off Weight (MTOW) – External
| >3,000 kg / >6,614 lbs |
Cargo hook rating | 1,500 kg / 3,307 lbs |
Capacity | 1 Pilot + up to 8 Passengers |
Power plant | Safran Arriel 2K |
Maximum Take Off Power (TOP)
| 1,000 shp class |
Maximum speed | 260 km/h / 140 kts |
Maximum range | 800 km / 432 nm |
Maximum endurance | 5 h |
CABIN AND ACCESSIBILITY
The AW09 features a uniquely spacious high-ceiling cabin, offering the largest “one-volume” cabin compartment in its class. This design makes it a versatile multi-mission helicopter, adding significant value for everyday operations.
With sliding doors on both sides and standard clamshell doors with high tail boom, the AW09 ensures unobstructed access for even the most demanding missions.
Cabin comfort is further enhanced by excellent external visibility, leveraging on additional windows in the cockpit and cabin doors.

SEATS AND LAYOUTS
The passenger seats are designed to meet the latest safety standards, incorporating a high-back energy-absorbing structure. Each seat is equipped with a four-point harness featuring a quick-release buckle and a life vest pocket conveniently located beneath the cushion.
The versatile seating can be configured to accommodate several layouts, making it easy to adapt the cabin for different needs. Reconfiguring the cabin layout is straightforward, thanks to the quick-lock devices on the seats and the flat floor designed for multiple attachment points.
COMPOSITE AIRFRAME
The composite airframe is lighter and more durable than traditional metallic structures, meeting the highest crash resistance standards for occupant protection and fuel containment.
By utilizing composite fabrication, we can minimize the need for ribs and supports, resulting in increased internal volume capacity.
Additionally, composite materials offer superior resistance to corrosion, humidity, and salt exposure.


AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS
The AW09 is equipped with dual-redundant hydraulic, electrical, and fuel systems that not only exceed the latest CS-27 design standards but also align with CS-29 requirements.
These advanced features ensure the high safety levels necessary for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations. Additionally, the AW09 is fully prepared for Night Vision Goggles (NVG) operations, thanks to its extensive use of LED lighting.
GARMIN G3000H GLASS COCKPIT
The Modular Garmin G3000H flight deck is equipped for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations, featuring 12-inch high-resolution displays that are compatible with Night Vision Goggles (NVG).
This flight deck boasts an innovative, ergonomic, and intuitive man-machine interface, complete with touchscreen controls and voice-activated radio selection. These features are designed to significantly reduce pilot workload.
It includes a Mode S Transponder with ADS-B In/Out capabilities, complemented by a 3D Synthetic Vision System (SVS) and terrain warning features (HTAWS) to increase safety and situational awareness during night Visual Flight Rules (VFR) operations or in Degraded Visibility Environments (DVE).
Additionally, the aircraft system integrates seamlessly with the Multi-Function Display (MFD), allowing for the display of various video inputs—including internal and external cameras, as well as infrared devices—and providing HSI mapping with split-screen capabilities.
Last but not least, the AW09 provides connectivity feature as part of the baseline offer, capable of collecting and automatically download engine and airframe data.


ROTOR SYSTEMS
The main rotor system, featuring five composite blades, delivers exceptional manoeuvrability and minimizes vibrations, ensuring a smooth flight experience. Its high ground clearance enhances safety during ground operations.
The shrouded tail rotor design prioritizes safety by significantly reducing the risk of injury to ground personnel and minimizing the chance of accidental contact with obstacles. Additionally, the aerodynamic shape of the rotor fairing increases anti-torque thrust in flight, enhancing overall performance. Featuring ten unevenly spaced blades, the tail rotor is engineered for extremely low noise emissions, reduced maintenance needs, and high damage tolerance.
RELIABLE TURBINE ENGINE
The Arriel 2K engine represents the latest advancement in the Arriel 2 family of engines produced by Safran Helicopter Engines, setting the standard in the 1,000 shp class.
Built on proven and reliable core technologies, the Arriel 2K shares a high degree of part commonality with its predecessor while also introducing significant improvements and new features.
In the specific installation for the AW09, the engine integrates a dedicated free-wheel design, optimized lubrication and chip detection, and the latest fuel management system standards. This ensures stable and efficient combustion while also providing compatibility with future sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), including biofuels.
To enhance safety and reduce pilot workload across all flight conditions, the Arriel 2K is equipped with a dual-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system, complemented by a third integrated channel for automatic engine control as a backup. Additionally, leveraging the extensive experience gained from the Arriel 2 family, the 2K version is designed for reduced maintenance requirements.
