First SAF-powered rotorcraft flight in UAE
Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) and Leonardo’s AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopter has accomplished two flights powered by aviation fuel blended with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The flights using SAF on an…
Abu Dhabi Aviation (ADA) and Leonardo’s AW139 intermediate twin-engine helicopter has accomplished two flights powered by aviation fuel blended with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The flights using SAF on an ADA commercial helicopter marked a first in the UAE and Middle East. “This initiative and achievement demonstrate ADA and Leonardo’s capability and active commitment in reducing the impact that aviation has on global carbon emissions,” the companies said.
Nader Ahmed Al Hammadi, chairman of Abu Dhabi Aviation, said: “We reaffirm ADA’s commitment to supporting the UAE’s efforts in the aviation sector to ensure sustainable growth and its adoption in the future.”
Gian Piero Cutillo, Leonardo Helicopters’ MD, said “The SAF flights in the UAE performed by ADA’s AW139 have shown what’s possible in support of the rapid evolution of sustainability requirements in aviation.
“This technology can deliver real benefits in the region and widely across geographies, for all missions and can be readily available. We’re committed to joining forces with authorities, energy industry leaders and rotorcraft service providers to incentivise the use of SAF to sustain carbon footprint reduction.”
ADA and Leonardo have been collaborating for over 15 years with the operator acquiring a total of 33 aircraft to date, most of which are AW139s.
Recently, ADA set a 100,000 flight hour milestone with its Leonardo helicopter fleet. The ADA’s fleet of Leonardo helicopters was extended to comprehensive localised support, maintenance, and overhaul services in the UAE around ten years ago with the establishment of the AgustaWestland Aviation Services Joint Venture and subsequent training and simulation capabilities.
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