The first AW139 helicopter to be assembled in Russia has made its maiden flight.

It performed a successful take off and hover and is currently undergoing a programme of flight testing.

The second helicopter to be assembled by HeliVert – a joint venture between Russian Helicopters and AgustaWestland – is expected to be in operation by February.

The AW139 is a medium-sized multi-role helicopter with a maximum cruise speed of 306km/h, maximum range in excess of 927km and a maximum flight time of five hours.

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