The aircraft will form part of the equipment for Trinidad and Tobago Air Guard and will provide the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force with enhanced counter-narcotic, maritime interdiction and search and rescue capabilities.
The previous government ordered the helicopters and three offshore patrol boats (OPV) as part of a billion-dollar upgrade for the seucrity services. However when the new government took office it cancelled the OPV deal for breach of contract and also because the coast of maintenance for the OPVs was to high - about $500,000 na year.
However it went ahead with the purchase of the luxury choppers which can travel long distances at high speed in luxurious comfort.
The PP government is buying the helicopters for TT$2.3 billion.
According to the company's website the primary use of the AW 139 is VIP/Corporate transport. The website states that the AW139 is capable of carrying up to 15 passengers "at very high speed, in a most spacious and comfortable cabin".
The aircraft are sophisticated and versatile enough for transporting state officials anywhere in the country and on short regional trips but will not be able to handle the long-range flights.
The company's sales brochure states: "The AW139’s world of refinement is matched by the highest standards in style and comfort. The spacious cabin provides flexibility for the most sophisticated requirements...
"The AW139’s interior materials are the finest available in the world, selected not only to maintain their beauty and value, but to enhance the experience of flying."
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