A sleek new white helicopter will slowly be making its presence known across RAF stations over the next few months. In the case of the RAF's latest helicopter, the Agusta 109 is very much a 'once seen, never forgotten' type of aircraft. Three A109s have entered service with Northolt-based 32 (The Royal) Squadron in the VIP and communications role.
The trio replaces three Twin Squirrel helicopters that have served with 32 over the last eight years. First sight of the A109 as it comes in to land at RAF Innsworth is one of sleek looks and superb aerodynamics. Leased from a consortium of Agusta Westland Helicopters and Sloane Helicopters, the A109s will be operated under a civil-owned, military-operated scheme. For the passengers using the new aircraft, they will notice a significant change from the Twin Squirrel.
Pilot Flt Lt Neil Smith said: "It is very much early days with the squadron but already the new helicopter is proving its worth. It can carry up to six passengers instead of the Twin Squirrel’s four and is a significant step up in terms of performance and capability."
Today, Air Vice-Marshal John Ponsonby, AOC Training Group, is visiting Syerston and is flying the A109 for the first time. The passenger cabin is surprisingly roomy, with plush leather seats and superb noise-reduction headsets. Passengers can enter through two sliding doors on each side of the fuselage.
It is capable of cruising at 155 knots and its greater speed means it can cut journey times by up to 20 per cent over the Twin Squirrel.
Flt Lt Smith added: "The helicopter has superb air conditioning, which is a blessing for pilots and passengers, and there are also reading lights and a private intercom system."
The squadron, commanded by Wg Cdr Tom Barrett, is the only RAF squadron to operate helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. As well as the A109s, the squadron flies BAe 146 and HS125.
The helicopters are part of B Flight, commanded by Sqn Ldr Neil Strevens with three flight lieutenant pilots.
The flight to Cranwell takes around 45 minutes. Headsets block out any noise, and although the forward view is restricted, visibility through side windows is superb.
On the return flight to RAF Innsworth, Air Vice-Marshal Ponsonby, a helicopter pilot himself, gave his reaction about the new aircraft. He said: "As a communications vehicle, it is second to none. It is quiet, fast and comfortable, everything you would want in this type of helicopter. "I have been hugely impressed."
Neil Smith added: "It's an exciting time for us as we develop the 109's role. The greater range of the helicopter means that we can now look at flights to parts of Europe. It is a pleasure to fly."
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