An AgustaWestland AW609 tiltrotor prototype crashed in Italy this morning while on a routine test flight, killing both crewmembers. The aircraft went down outside Santhia in Vercelli province.
Italy’s National Agency for Flight Safety (ANSV) is investigating. Unconfirmed Italian press reports indicate that one of the engines was on fire before the crash.
In a written statement from Finmeccanica-AgustaWestland, the manufacturer confirmed the loss of an AW609prototype with the loss of both pilots. It expressed sympathy for the families and said that it is working with the investigating authorities.
The destroyed aircraft, Prototype 2, had been flying since 2006. Lately it had been used to test new installations, such as validation of a new pitot-static system, and making marketing flights for the company throughout Europe. AgustaWestland is not releasing the names of the pilots at this time.
AgustaWestland had hoped to gain FAA certification for the AW609 in 2017 and begin customer deliveries in 2018. Last month, Prototype 2 set a speed record on a trip of 627 nm from the UK to Italy, covering the distance in two hours 18 minutes. AgustaWestland is currently building test ships 3 and 4.
Queensland-based Horizon Airways has signed an order for a second Tecnam P2012 STOL aircraft. Slated to join the Australian fleet by the end of 2026, this subsequent order rapidly...
FL Technics subsidiary FL Technics LLC, which provides Line Maintenance services across the Middle East, has expanded its approved capabilities by adding Airbus A350, Boeing 777, Boeing 787, and Boein...
WestJet completed the transformation of its remaining all-economy aircraft, fulfilling its commitment to update the interior of all aircraft that were formerly operated by Swoop or Sunwing airlines. T...
ATP Flight School has reintroduced its 100+ Hour Multi-Engine Airline Career Pilot Program at select training centers, bringing students multi-engine flight time at single-engine prices.&nbs...
