This article is based on an official press release from ASG Helicopter Services.

ASG Helicopters Services Introduces First Leonardo AW189 to Caspian Region

ASG Helicopter Services (ASG), a prominent aviation operator based in Azerbaijan, has officially integrated its first Leonardo AW189 helicopter into its fleet. The delivery, celebrated during a presentation on December 17, 2025, marks a significant operational milestone as the first aircraft of its type to enter service in the Caspian Sea region, covering Central Asia and the Caucasus.

According to the company’s announcement, this delivery is the first of two units ordered to support offshore oil and gas operations. The second unit is scheduled for delivery in early 2026. The acquisition was executed through a partnership involving ASG, the manufacturer Leonardo Helicopters, and Exclases Group, the exclusive distributor for Leonardo in the region.

Operational Capabilities and Configuration

The newly delivered AW189 has been supplied in a specialized offshore configuration designed to meet the rigorous demands of the energy sector. ASG Helicopter Services states that the aircraft is tailored for long-range transport and overwater safety, bridging the operational gap between the company’s medium-class AW139s and heavy-class Sikorsky S-92As.

The “super-medium” class helicopter features a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of approximately 8.3 to 8.6 tonnes and is configured to carry 16 passengers plus two pilots. Key safety specifications highlighted in the release include a main gearbox capable of a 50-minute “run-dry” operation, exceeding standard certification requirements, and a Full Ice Protection System (FIPS) to manage the challenging winter conditions of the Caspian region.

Strategic Fleet Modernization

ASG Helicopter Services indicated that the introduction of the AW189 is part of a broader strategy to modernize its fleet and enhance service offerings for major clients such as SOCAR, BP, and TOTAL. By adopting the super-medium platform, the operator aims to provide a more cost-efficient solution for missions that require significant range and payload but do not necessitate the full capacity of a heavy helicopter.

Azer Sultanov, Head of ASG Helicopter Services, emphasized the importance of this acquisition for the company’s future operations:

“Next-generation helicopters represent a significant new era for ASG Helicopter Services. The integration of the AW189 helicopter into our offshore operations strengthens our capability to meet the evolving needs of customers in the oil, gas, and energy sectors, while ensuring the highest standards of safety, reliability, and operational efficiency.”

The company confirmed that the aircraft has already received all necessary registration and airworthiness certificates from the Civil Aviation Authority of Azerbaijan.

AirPro News analysis

The arrival of the AW189 in the Caspian region reflects a wider global trend in the offshore energy sector: the shift toward “super-medium” rotorcraft. For years, the industry relied heavily on heavy helicopters for deep-water transport. However, volatility in oil prices and advancements in avionics have driven operators toward aircraft that offer near-heavy payload capabilities with the lower operating costs of a medium airframe.

By securing the first AW189 in the region, ASG positions itself as a technological leader in the Central Asian market. This move likely anticipates stricter safety standards from International Oil and Gas Producers (IOGP), which increasingly favor modern airframes equipped with advanced terrain awareness and run-dry capabilities. We expect this acquisition to place pressure on regional competitors to upgrade their legacy fleets to maintain contracts with international oil majors.

Technical Specifications and Safety

The AW189 is powered by two General Electric CT7-2E1 engines, providing the necessary power for long-range missions to remote rigs. According to manufacturer data referenced in the report, the aircraft includes a suite of advanced avionics designed to reduce pilot workload and enhance situational awareness.

• Range: Approximately 440-600 nautical miles, depending on payload.
• Emergency Systems: Equipped with life rafts, emergency floats certified up to Sea State 6, and Helicopter Emergency Exit Lighting Systems (HEELS).
• Avionics: Glass cockpit with 4-axis autopilot, Helicopter Terrain Awareness and Warning System (HTAWS), and Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS II).

ASG Helicopter Services, which already operates as an Authorized Service Center for Leonardo’s AW139 and AW109 models, will extend its maintenance capabilities to support the new AW189 fleet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of the new AW189?
The helicopter is configured for offshore transport, ferrying personnel and supplies to oil and gas platforms in the Caspian Sea.

How many passengers can it carry?
In its current offshore configuration, the aircraft seats 16 passengers and 2 pilots.

When will the second unit arrive?
ASG expects to take delivery of the second AW189 in early 2026.

Sources

• ASG Helicopter Services Press Release