Leonardo AW609

File:BA609 01.jpg, 2007]]

The BA609 drew on experience gained from Bell's earlier experimental tiltrotor, the XV-15.{{cite book |url=https://history.nasa.gov/monograph17.pdf |title=The History of the XV-15 Tilt Rotor Research Aircraft |publisher=NASA |first1=Martin D. |last1=Maisel |first2=Demo J. |last2=Giulianetti |first3=Daniel C. |last3=Dugan |series=Monographs in Aerospace History No. 17 |year=2000 |isbn=0-16-050276-4 |id=NASA SP-2000-4517}}"[https://web.archive.org/web/20150402112936/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-55075488.html XV-15 Completes Demonstration On Coast Guard Cutter]" Helicopter News In 1996, Bell and Boeing formed a partnership to develop a civil tiltrotor aircraft. In March 1998, Boeing pulled out of the project. In September 1998, Agusta became a partner in the development program. This led to the establishment of the Bell/Agusta Aerospace Company (BAAC), a joint venture between Bell Helicopter and AgustaWestland, to develop and manufacture the aircraft, which was named Bell-Agusta AB-609; the two companies simultaneously worked on a conventional medium helicopter project (the Agusta-Bell AB139).{{Cite web |date=2018-10-23 |title=The AB139: Filling The Market Gap - Rotor & Wing International |url=https://www.rotorandwing.com/2005/05/01/the-ab139-filling-the-market-gap/ |access-date=2024-07-14 |archive-date=23 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181023200148/https://www.rotorandwing.com/2005/05/01/the-ab139-filling-the-market-gap/ |url-status=dead }}{{cite book |title=The International Directory of Civil Aircraft, 2003–2004 |publisher=Aerospace Publications |first=Gerard |last=Frawley |page=48 |year=2003 |isbn=1-875671-58-7}}

The Italian government subsidized Agusta's development of a military tiltrotor, and as the AW609 has civilian aspects, the European Commission requires AgustaWestland to pay back progressive amounts per aircraft to the Italian state to avoid a distortion of competition.{{Cite news |title=State aid: Commission agrees with Italy amount of subsidies Augusta Westland needs to reimburse for projects that have civilian uses |newspaper=States News Service |url-access= |access-date=9 March 2015 |date= |url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-246262838.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402194341/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-246262838.html|archive-date=2 April 2015}} {{asof|2015}}, Bell continues to perform contract work on the AW609 program, while considering commercial potential for the bigger V-280 tiltrotor, where military production may reach larger numbers and hence reduce unit cost.Black, Thomas. "[http://www.star-telegram.com/news/business/article35969325.html Bell Helicopter exploring civilian market for new tilt-rotor aircraft]" [https://web.archive.org/web/20150922124321/http://www.star-telegram.com/news/business/article35969325.html Archive]{{cite web |url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/eb32b40a-5466-11e4-84c6-00144feab7de.html |title=Helicopter market eyes civilian tilt-rotor models |work=Financial Times |date=20 October 2014 |access-date=30 October 2015}} In 2016, Bell preferred the 609 for commercial applications and kept the V-280 for military use only. Bell stated that conventional helicopters were not part of Bell's future for military customers.{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/heli-expo-bell-rules-out-future-conventional-milita-422537/ |title=HELI-EXPO: Bell rules out future conventional military helicopter developments |work=Flightglobal.com |access-date=7 March 2016}}

The aircraft's purpose is to take off and land vertically, but fly faster than a helicopter.{{sfn|Venanzi|Wells|2013|p=5}} Over 45 different aircraft have flown proving VTOL and STOL capabilities, of which the V-22, Harrier "jump jet" family, Yakovlev Yak-38 and Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II jets have proceeded to production.{{sfn|Venanzi|Wells|2013|p=37}} By 2008, Bell had estimated that very light jets and large offshore helicopters like the Sikorsky S-92 had reduced the potential market for tiltrotors.{{Cite news |first=James T. |last=McKenna |title=Are the S-92 and Light Jets Shrinking the BA609 Market? |newspaper=Rotor & Wing |url-access= |date=15 March 2008 |url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-177035787.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402151351/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-177035787.html|archive-date=2 April 2015}} Also in 2008, it was reported that limited funding of the program by both Bell and AgustaWestland had resulted in slow flight testing progress.

In September 2009, AgustaWestland chief executive Giuseppe Orsi said that corporate parent Finmeccanica had authorised buying Bell Helicopter out of the program to speed it up,{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/agustawestland-looks-to-take-full-control-of-ba609-civil-tiltrotor-programme-332427/ |title=AgustaWestland looks to take full control of BA609 civil tiltrotor programme |work=Flight International |via=FlightGlobal.com |first=Luca |last=Peruzzi |date=21 September 2009 |access-date=14 February 2012}} as Bell was dissatisfied with the commercial prospects{{cite news |url=http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/agustawestland-and-bell-complete-609-transaction/ |title=AgustaWestland and Bell complete 609 transaction |work=Shephard Media |first=Tony |last=Skinner |date=29 November 2011 |access-date=7 August 2014}} and wanted to spend the resources on other programs. In 2013 AgustaWestland estimated a market of 700 aircraft over 20 years. By 2011, negotiations centred on the full transfer of technologies shared with the V-22,{{cite news |url=http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/heli-expo-2011-agustawestland-to-take-over-ba609-tiltrotor-project/8496/ |title=Heli-Expo 2011: AgustaWestland to take over BA609 tiltrotor project |work=Shephard Media |first=Tony |last=Osborne |date=5 March 2011 |access-date=14 February 2012}}{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-agustawestland-disagree-on-future-of-ba609-partnership-354196/ |title=Bell, AgustaWestland disagree on future of BA609 partnership |work=Flight International |via= FlightGlobal.com |first=Stephen |last=Trimble |date=14 March 2011 |access-date=14 February 2012}} however Bell stated that no technology was shared with the V-22.{{cite news |first=Mark |last=Huber |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2011-06-30/agustawestland-buys-bells-stake-ba609-tiltrotor |title=AgustaWestland Buys Bell's Stake in BA609 Tiltrotor |work=Aviation International News |date=30 June 2011 |access-date=11 April 2015}} At the 2011 Paris Air Show, AgustaWestland stated that it will assume full ownership of the programme, redesignating the aircraft as "AW609", and that Bell Helicopter will remain in the role of component design and certification.{{cite press release |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/news/agustawestland-takes-full-ownership-ba609-programme |title=AgustaWestland Takes Full Ownership of the BA609 Programme |publisher=AgustaWestland |date=21 June 2011 |access-date=21 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110627061713/http://www.agustawestland.com/news/agustawestland-takes-full-ownership-ba609-programme |archive-date=27 June 2011 }} In November 2011, the exchange of ownership was completed, following the granting of regulatory approval - media estimated that the transfer happened at little cost.{{cite news |first=Mark |last=Huber |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2012-01-03/finmeccanica-slide-could-impact-new-agustawestland-programs |title=Finmeccanica Slide Could Impact New AgustaWestland Programs |work=Aviation International News |date=3 January 2012 |access-date=11 April 2015}}

File:BA609 in hover mode at 2008 Farnborough Airshow 01.jpg

On 6 December 2002, the first ground tests of the BA609 prototype began. The first flight took place on 7 March 2003 in Arlington, Texas, flown by test pilots Roy Hopkins and Dwayne Williams.{{Cite conference |author1=Fortenbaugh, Robert |author2=Hopkins, Roy II |author3=King, David |chapter=BA609 First Flight VSTOL Handling Qualities |title=American Helicopter Society 60th Annual Forum |date=2004 |url=https://vtol.org/store/product/ba609-first-flight-vstol-handling-qualities-4028.cfm |language=en |publisher=The Vertical Flight Society}} After 14 hours of helicopter-mode flight testing, the prototype was moved to a ground testing rig to study the operational effects of the conversion modes.{{cite web |url=http://www.vtol.org/news/issues305.html#ba609 |title=BA609 Ground Runs Convert Helicopter To Airplane |work=VTOL.org |publisher=American Helicopter Society |date=March 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060927054320/http://www.vtol.org/news/issues605.html#bell |archive-date=27 September 2006}} Following the completion of ground-based testing, on 3 June 2005 the prototype resumed flight testing, focusing on the expansion of its flight envelope.{{cite web |url=http://www.vtol.org/news/issues605.html#bell |title=Bell Returns BA609 to Test Flight |work=VTOL.org |publisher=American Helicopter Society |date=June 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060927054320/http://www.vtol.org/news/issues605.html#bell |archive-date=27 September 2006}} On 22 July 2005, the first conversion from helicopter to aeroplane mode while in flight took place.{{cite web |url=http://www.vtol.org/news/issues705.html#tilt |title=BA609 Tilt Rotor Makes Airplane Conversion |work=VTOL.org |publisher=American Helicopter Society |date=July 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060927054404/http://www.vtol.org/news/issues705.html#tilt |archive-date=27 September 2006}}

File:BA609 in airplane mode at 2008 Farnborough Airshow.jpg]]

By October 2008, 365 flight-hours had been logged by two prototype aircraft.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/news/single-news-page/article/ba609-civil-tiltrotor-still-on-schedule/ |title=BA609 Civil Tiltrotor Still on Schedule |work=Aviation International News |first=R. Randall |last=Padfield |date=7 October 2008 |access-date=20 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081016155545/http://www.ainonline.com/news/single-news-page/article/ba609-civil-tiltrotor-still-on-schedule/ |archive-date=16 October 2008 }} The AW609 demonstrated a safe dual-engine failure in normal cruise flight on 15 May 2009.{{sfn|Venanzi|Wells|2013|p=32}} By February 2012, this had risen to 650 hours, and it was reported that 85 per cent of the AW609's flight envelope had been explored.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/hai-convention-news/2012-02-11/aw609-finally-ready-its-close |title=AW609 Finally Ready for its Close-up |work=Aviation International News |first=James |last=Wynbrandt |date=11 February 2012 |access-date=14 February 2012 |archive-date=14 February 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120214172623/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/hai-convention-news/2012-02-11/aw609-finally-ready-its-close }} Test pilot Paul Edwards has stated that the AW609 was not susceptible to the vortex ring state phenomena, naturally slipping out of the vortex on its own since both rotors will not simultaneously enter the vortex ring state.{{cite news |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/agustawestland-prepares-for-aw609-certification-push-416790/ |title=AgustaWestland prepares for AW609 certification push |work=Flightglobal.com |first=Dominic |last=Perry |date=16 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919170947/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/agustawestland-prepares-for-aw609-certification-push-416790/ |archive-date=19 September 2015 |url-status=live}}

In 2011, AgustaWestland began construction of a third prototype. That prototype was still not fully assembled by February 2015. The company plans to conduct test flights in Italy in the summer of 2015. AgustaWestland planned to then disassemble it and ship it to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to prepare it for tests of the de-icing system in Minnesota. A fourth prototype, to be used in the development and testing of new avionics and control systems, was also underway.{{cite journal |title=AgustaWestland at full tilt to deliver AW609 on time |journal=Flight International |first=Kate |last=Sarsfield |volume=180 |issue=5320 |page=18 |date=6 December 2011}}{{cite journal |first=Tony |last=Osbourne |title=Tilting times |journal=Aviation Week & Space Technology |date=2–15 March 2015 |pages=52–3}} By November 2012, over 700 flight hours had been accumulated by the two operational prototypes.{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/in-focus-agustawestland-exploits-buoyant-civil-helicopter-market-378588/ |title=In focus: AgustaWestland exploits buoyant civil helicopter mark |work=Flight International via FlightGlobal.com |first=Murdo |last=Morrison |date=13 November 2012}} In January 2014, it was reported that in excess of 850 flying hours had been accumulated by the two prototypes. Accumulated flight data is used to further develop representative simulators, which are in turn being used to support the development program.{{cite news |url=http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/Flying-the-AW609:-a-preview |title=Flying the AW609: A Preview |work=Vertical |first=Elan |last=Head |date=20 January 2014 |access-date=20 January 2014}}

By March 2015, the two prototype aircraft had accumulated 1,200 hours, of about 2,000 hours necessary for certification. Two more aircraft were expected to fly that year. Flight test maximums had progressed to a weight of {{convert|18000|lb|kg|abbr=on}}, a speed of {{convert|293|kn|mph kph|abbr=on}}, and {{convert|30000|ft|m|abbr=on}} altitude.{{cite news |url=http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/AW609TiltrotorMakingStridesTowardCertification |title=AW609 Tiltrotor Making Strides Toward Certification |work=Vertical Magazine |first=Rob |last=Erdos |date=5 March 2015 |access-date=16 March 2015}} In 2015, AgustaWestland reported that the AW609 flew {{convert|1161|km|mi|order=flip}} from Yeovil, UK, to Milan, Italy, in 2 hours 18 minutes.{{cite press release |url=http://www.finmeccanica.com/en/-/aw609-record |title=The AW609 TiltRotor sets speed record on 1000 km journey: 2 hours 18 minutes from UK to Italy |publisher=Finmeccanica |date=15 September 2015 |access-date=15 September 2015}} In September 2015, the first AW609 prototype was reportedly nearing the end of its service life, while a third prototype was finishing construction at the company's Vergiate facility and a fourth prototype was being built in Philadelphia.

On 30 October 2015, the second of the two prototypes (N609AG) crashed near AgustaWestland's Vergiate facility in north west Italy, killing both pilots.{{cite news |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/aw609-crash-kills-two-pilots-in-northern-italy-418429/ |title=AW609 crash kills two pilots in northern Italy |work=FlightGlobal.com |first=Dominic |last=Perry |date=30 October 2015}}{{cite web | title=AW609 crash: final report points to oscillations and flight control laws | website=Vertical Mag | date=15 May 2017 | url=https://verticalmag.com/news/aw609-crash-final-report-points-oscillations-flight-control-laws/#:~:text=The%20aircraft's%20excessive%20yaw%20angle,in%2Dflight%20breakup%20and%20fire | access-date=16 February 2024}}

File:AgustaWestland AW-609 N609AG (cn 60002) static display (21471922133).jpg

In 2002, Type certification of the aircraft was projected for 2007.{{citation |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-aiming-for-ba609-certification-in-2007-155986/ |title=Bell aiming for BA609 certification in 2007 |work=Flightglobal |publisher=Reed Business Information |date=8 October 2002 |access-date=8 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150308152318/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bell-aiming-for-ba609-certification-in-2007-155986/ |archive-date=8 March 2015 |url-status=live}} In 2007, certification was projected for 2011.{{cite press release |url=http://www.bellhelicopter.com/en/company/pressReleases/PR_07_0618-04_609_TestPace.cfm |title=BAAC 609 Flight Test Continues Development Pace |publisher=Bell Helicopter |first1=Mike |last1=Cox |first2=Greg |last2=Hubbard |date=18 June 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070715164819/http://www.bellhelicopter.com/en/company/pressReleases/PR_07_0618-04_609_TestPace.cfm |archive-date=15 July 2007}} In August 2012, the aircraft was forecast to receive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification in early 2016.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2012-08-02/agustawestland-taps-pwc-rockwell-collins-and-bae-aw609-civil-tiltrotor |title=AgustaWestland Taps P&WC, Rockwell Collins and BAE for AW609 Civil Tiltrotor |work=Aviation International News |first=Matt |last=Thurber |date=2 August 2012 |access-date=9 August 2012 |archive-date=10 August 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120810015829/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2012-08-02/agustawestland-taps-pwc-rockwell-collins-and-bae-aw609-civil-tiltrotor |url-status=dead }} The company expected to achieve FAA certification in 2017.{{cite news |url=http://aviationweek.com/awin/certification-flight-test-work-nears-aw609 |title=Certification Flight-Test Work Nears For AW609 |work=Aviation Week & Space Technology |first=Tony |last=Osborne |date=2 December 2013 |access-date=16 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150316213238/http://aviationweek.com/awin/certification-flight-test-work-nears-aw609 |archive-date=16 March 2015 |url-status=live}} Some delays were caused by lack of funding for the FAA,{{cite news |url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-62835354.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924161617/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-62835354.html |archive-date=24 September 2015 |title=FAA inaction threatens civilian tiltrotors |work=Helicopter News |first=Oliver |last=Sutton |date=16 June 2000 |url-access= }} others by the V-22 troubles,{{cite news |url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-96478546.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402204607/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-96478546.html |archive-date=2 April 2015 |title=New aircraft will be 1st commercial tilt-rotor |work=The Dallas Morning News |first=Katie |last=Fairbank |date=13 January 2003 |access-date=9 March 2015 |url-access= }} while AgustaWestland also spent time increasing performance and reducing cost.

In 2012, the FAA stated that the AW609 was to be certified in compliance with both helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft rules. New codes were to be developed to cover the transition phase between the two modes. Of the 217 Pilot Training Tasks, 10 are unique tiltrotor tasks.{{sfn|Venanzi|Wells|2013|p=16}} AW609 Certification Basis is established by the FAA under the provisions of Part 21.17(b) for "Special Class Aircraft" along with a portion of Part 25 (fixed-wing aircraft) and 29 (helicopter) and new specific tiltrotor parts{{sfn|Venanzi|Wells|2013|p=17}}{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/2012-07-09/agustawestland-offers-higher-weight-aw609-option |title=AgustaWestland Offers Higher Weight AW609 Option |work=Aviation International News |first=Thierry |last=Dubois |date=9 July 2012 |access-date=13 March 2015}} in a new category called "powered lift". In January 2013, the FAA defined US tiltrotor noise rules to comply with ICAO rules, expecting the AW609 to be available within 10 years. Noise certification will cost $588,000, which is the same as for a large helicopter.{{cite web |url=https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2013/01/08/2013-00111/noise-certification-standards-for-tiltrotors |title=Noise Certification Standards for Tiltrotors |work=Federal Register |author=Federal Aviation Administration |date=8 January 2013 |access-date=13 January 2013}}{{cite news |url=http://www.aero-news.net/subscribe.cfm?do=main.textpost&id=98a33b6f-df48-4348-88bd-c66db2d8a24a |title=FAA Publishes Modified Noise Rules For Tiltrotors |work=Aero-News Network |date=11 January 2013 |access-date=13 January 2013}}

In February 2014, the AW609 conducted its first customer demonstration flights, in both airplane and helicopter modes,{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/hai-convention-news/2014-02-26/agustawestland-offers-demo-flights-aw609-tiltrotor-heli-expo-2014 |title=AgustaWestland Offers Demo Flights on AW609 Tiltrotor at Heli-Expo 2014 |work=Aviation International News |first=James |last=Wynbrandt |date=26 February 2014 |access-date=3 March 2014}}{{cite press release |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/news/agustawestland-completes-first-customer-demonstration-aw609 |title=AgustaWestland Completes First Customer Demonstration of AW609 |publisher=AugustaWestland |date=27 February 2014 |access-date=2 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140302233258/http://www.agustawestland.com/news/agustawestland-completes-first-customer-demonstration-aw609 |archive-date=2 March 2014 }} and began certification flights.{{cite news |url=http://aviationweek.com/commercial-aviation/aw609-begins-certification-flying |title=AW609 Begins Certification Flying |work=Aviation Week & Space Technology |first=Tony |last=Osborne |date=25 February 2014 |access-date=3 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140817090608/http://aviationweek.com/commercial-aviation/aw609-begins-certification-flying |archive-date=17 August 2014 |url-status=live}}

In early summer 2014, the AW609 performed FAA-monitored autorotation tests. More than 79 power-off conversions from airplane mode to helicopter mode were made across 10 flight hours. During these tests, it was found that the minimum operating requirements for successful autorotation include the altitude being {{convert|3000|ft|m|abbr=on}}, and that the system keeps rotor rpm above the minimum 70% for stable recovery.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2014-06-02/test-pilots-take-autorotating-tiltrotor |title=Test Pilot's Take on Autorotating the Tiltrotor |work=Aviation International News |first=Mark |last=Huber |date=2 June 2014 |access-date=4 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140704003924/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2014-06-02/test-pilots-take-autorotating-tiltrotor |archive-date=4 July 2014}} The test pilots received the Iven C. Kincheloe Award for their role in the tests.{{cite press release |url=http://www.leonardocompany.com/en/-/aw609-test-pilots-award |title=AW609 Test Pilots Receive Iven C. Kincheloe Award |publisher=AgustaWestland |date=21 October 2014 |access-date=4 March 2017}}

In February 2023, pilots from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) flew the AW609 tiltrotor, representing the first time the regulator's pilots had flown the type. The Leonardo company described the flight as a pre-TIA (type inspection authorization) activity, as it moves towards the final stage of the certification process.{{Cite web |title=FAA pilots fly Leonardo AW609 for first time as certification enters 'final stage' |url=https://verticalmag.com/news/faa-pilots-fly-leonardo-aw609-for-first-time-as-certification-enters-final-stage/ |access-date=2023-03-13 |website=Vertical Mag |language=en-US}} EASA pilots subsequently commenced familarisation flights in March 2023{{Cite web |title=EASA pilots fly AW609 for first time |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/easa-pilots-fly-aw609-for-first-time/152606.article |access-date=2023-03-23 |website=Flight Global |language=en-US}} with certification and entry into service projected to be sometime in 2024.{{Cite web |title=Twin tiltrotor milestones to slip into 2024, says Leonardo Helicopters |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/twin-tiltrotor-milestones-to-slip-into-2024-says-leonardo-helicopters/152347.article |access-date=2023-03-23 |website=Flight Global |language=en-US}}

File:AW609 at Dubai Airshow 2021.jpg

At the Farnborough Air Show in July 2012, AgustaWestland announced a higher-weight variant of the AW609, up to {{convert|17500|lb|kg|disp=or}}. This model would trade some of its vertical takeoff performance for increased payload capacity. Officials from AgustaWestland have suggested that this short take off and vertical landing (STOVL) variant may be an attractive option for search and rescue and maritime operators.{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/in-focus-global-demand-grows-for-helicopters-able-to-access-remote-oil-and-gas-fields-367860/ |title=In focus: Global demand grows for helicopters able to access remote oil and gas fields |work=Flight International via FlightGlobal.com |first=John |last=Croft |date=7 February 2012}} According to senior vice-president of marketing Roberto Garavaglia, the Italian government is interested in acquiring several AW609s for coastal patrol duties. Due to an agreement with Bell, these may not feature armament.

In June 2013, AgustaWestland announced that work to integrate design changes as part of a major modernisation would delay the AW609's certification by up to one year.{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/agustawestland-aw609-certification-slips-to-2017-386896/ |title=AgustaWestland AW609 certification slips to 2017 |work=Flight Internationals via FlightGlobal.com |first=Dominic |last=Perry |date=10 June 2013}} These design changes primarily involved aerodynamic improvements, aimed at achieving a 10% reduction in drag and a significant reduction in overall weight, increasing the AW609's performance and capabilities. Separate improvement programs were underway on the aircraft's engines and avionics systems.{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/agustawestland-tests-enhancement-package-on-aw609-390534/ |title=AgustaWestland tests enhancement package on AW609 |work=Flight International |first=Dominic |last=Perry |date=13 September 2013 |access-date=16 September 2013}}{{cite press release |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/news/agustawestland-aw609-tiltrotor-aerodynamic-improvements-set-boost-performance |title=AgustaWestland AW609 TiltRotor Aerodynamic Improvements Set To Boost Performance |publisher=AgustaWestland |date=3 September 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141225190329/http://www.agustawestland.com/news/agustawestland-aw609-tiltrotor-aerodynamic-improvements-set-boost-performance |archive-date=25 December 2014}} In 2015, AgustaWestland announced the development of external fuel tanks which would permit {{convert|800|nmi|mi km|abbr=on}} flights carrying six passengers over three hours.{{cite press release |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/-/aw1235 |title=AgustaWestland Announces Further AW609 TiltRotor Performance and Product Improvements |publisher=AgustaWestland |date=3 March 2015 |access-date=3 March 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150331011657/http://www.agustawestland.com/-/aw1235 |archive-date=31 March 2015 }}

In 2013, AgustaWestland was considering a US-based final assembly point for production AW609s. Managing director Robert LaBelle stated that 35% of the customers for the tiltrotor are expected to come from the US market.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2013-01-01/agustawestland-aw609-moves-forward-may-be-built-texas |title=AgustaWestland AW609 Moves Forward, May Be Built in Texas |work=Aviation International News |first=Mark |last=Huber |date=1 January 2013}} Reportedly, the primary production line was to be located in Italy while a second production line in the US was under consideration. In 2015 AgustaWestland announced that the AW609 will be produced at its Philadelphia facility,{{cite news |url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Tiltrotor-Production-Planned-223646-1.html |title=Tiltrotor Production Planned |work=AVweb |first=Russ |last=Niles |date=3 March 2015 |access-date=4 March 2015}}{{cite news |url=http://www.aviationtoday.com/the-checklist/AgustaWestland-Begins-Production-Phase-of-AW609-Tiltrotor_84365.html |title=AgustaWestland Begins Production Phase of AW609 Tiltrotor |work=Aviation Today |date=3 March 2015 |access-date=5 March 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150305162530/http://www.aviationtoday.com/the-checklist/AgustaWestland-Begins-Production-Phase-of-AW609-Tiltrotor_84365.html |archive-date=5 March 2015 }} the production site for the AW139, AW119 KXe and AW169. Two to three AW609 aircraft will be assembled there beginning in 2017, and once production matures, a second final assembly line is being considered for Italy. Leonardo has a flight simulator in Philadelphia to assist pilot training in the peculiarities of flying a tiltrotor.{{cite web |last1=Head |first1=Elan |title=Tiltrotor Training Tool: We fly the AW609 procedures trainer |url=https://verticalmag.com/features/tiltrotor-training-tool-we-fly-the-aw609-procedures-trainer/ |website=Vertical Mag |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20220425152701/https://verticalmag.com/features/tiltrotor-training-tool-we-fly-the-aw609-procedures-trainer/ |archive-date=25 April 2022 |date=25 April 2022 |url-status=live}}

In 2015, Bristow Helicopters and AgustaWestland agreed to develop dedicated offshore oil and gas transport, and search and rescue configurations for the AW609.{{cite press release |url=http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/AgustaWestlandandBristowSignExclusivePlatformDevelopmentAgre |title=AgustaWestland and Bristow Sign Exclusive Platform Development Agreement for the AW609 Tiltrotor Program |publisher=AgustaWestland |work=Vertical |date=3 March 2015 |access-date=3 March 2015}} In March 2015, Bristow Group signed a joint development agreement with AgustaWestland at Heli-Expo, which would allow Bristow to exclusively direct the direction of the tiltrotor for offshore missions such as oil and gas operations.{{cite news |url=http://aviationweek.com/commercial-aviation/bristow-taps-tiltrotors-future-needs |title=Bristow Taps Tiltrotors For Future Needs |work=Aviation Week |first=Tony |last=Osborne |date=6 March 2015 |access-date=6 March 2015}} The changes could extend beyond the AW609 to potentially affect the design of larger and more advanced models that AgustaWestland was planning to introduce in the early 2020s. The introduction of tiltrotors would allow for point-to-point operations, flying oil company personnel to platforms from major population centers with a greater margin of safety. Industry journalists viewed the agreement as an approval of the tiltrotor technology from the commercial industry, where previously only the military were interested.{{cite news |url=http://aviationweek.com/commercial-aviation/podcast-exciting-and-strange-developments-heli-expo |title=Podcast: Exciting And Strange Developments From Heli-Expo |work=Aviation Week & Space Technology |first=Tony |last=Osborne |date=6 March 2015 |access-date=8 March 2015}}

In the early 2020s there was interest in a military version; an AW609 for utility, medevac, or search and rescue versions began to be discussed more seriously.{{Cite web |author=Mark Huber |title=Military Variant of Leonardo AW609 Appears a Likely Option for Government Customers |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2023-06-13/military-variant-leonardo-aw609-appears-likely |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=Aviation International News}}

File:Bell augusta convertiplano.jpg, Italy, 2011]]

The AW609 is a tiltrotor aircraft capable of performing vertical landings whereas conventional fixed-wing aircraft cannot, allowing the type to serve locations such as heliports or very small airports, while possessing twice the speed and the range of any available helicopter.{{Cite news |url=http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_43/b4055076.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071017043743/http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/07_43/b4055076.htm |archive-date=17 October 2007 |title=Selling CEOs on a Troubled Bird |work=BusinessWeek |first=Adam |last=Aston |date=22 October 2007 |access-date=14 February 2012}} AgustaWestland promotes the type as "...combining the benefits of a helicopter and a fixed-wing aircraft into one aircraft". The AW609 appears to be outwardly similar to the military-orientated V-22 Osprey. However, the two aircraft share few components. Unlike the V-22, the AW609 has a pressurised cabin.{{cite news |url=http://www.aviationtoday.com/regions/usa/Pilot-Report-Flying-the-AW609_81992.html |title=Pilot Report: Flying the AW609 |work=Aviation Today |first=Ernie |last=Stephens |date=28 April 2014 |access-date=20 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140520221028/http://www.aviationtoday.com/regions/usa/Pilot-Report-Flying-the-AW609_81992.html |archive-date=20 May 2014 }}

As of 2013, multiple cabin configurations have been projected, including a standard nine-passenger layout, a six-to-seven-passenger VIP/executive cabin, and a search and rescue model featuring a hoist/basket and four single seats. Medevac and patrol/surveillance-orientated variants have been proposed.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/hai-convention-news/2013-03-04/aw609-program-accelerating-under-agustawestland |title=AW609 Program Accelerating Under AgustaWestland |work=Aviation International News |first=Mark |last=Huber |date=4 March 2013 |access-date=18 March 2013 |archive-date=8 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130308121103/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/hai-convention-news/2013-03-04/aw609-program-accelerating-under-agustawestland }} For increased passenger comfort, the cabin is pressurised and equipped with soundproofing.{{cite web |url=http://www.leonardocompany.com/product-services/elicotteri_helicopters/aw609 |title=AW609: Convertiplane |publisher=Leonardo |access-date=21 May 2016}} Access to the cabin is via a {{convert|35|in|cm|adj=mid|-wide}}, two-piece clamshell door, center-set into the fuselage underneath the wings.

The AW609 is powered by a pair of Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67A turboshaft engines, which each drive a three-bladed proprotor. These engines possess roughly twice the horsepower of the similarly sized AgustaWestland AW169 helicopter.{{cite news |url=http://www.defense-aerospace.com/article-view/feature/140692/aw-completes-aw609-tiltrotor-takeover.html |title=AgustaWestland Completes AW609 Tiltrotor Takeover |work=Defense-aerospace.com |first=Giovanni |last=de Briganti |date=4 December 2012 |access-date=13 April 2015}} Both of the engine and proprotor pairs are mounted on a load-bearing rotatable pylon at the wing's ends, allowing the proprotors to be positioned at various angles. In helicopter mode, the proprotors can be positioned between a 75- and 95-degree angle from the horizontal, with 87 degrees being the typical selection for hovering vertically. In airplane mode, the proprotors are rotated forward and locked in position at a zero-degree angle, spinning at 84% RPM. The flight control software reportedly handles much of the complexity of the transitioning between helicopter and airplane modes. Automated systems guide pilots to the correct tilt angle and air speed settings.

File:BA609 cabin.jpg

When flying in airplane mode, the majority of lift is produced by the AW609's wings, which are slightly forward-swept. Both the wing and the main fuselage are made largely of composite materials. The {{convert|34|ft|m|adj=mid|-long}} wings feature flaperon control surfaces which are normally automatically controlled. In vertical flight, the flaperons drop to a 66-degree downwards angle to reduce the wing area being encountered by downwash from the proprotors. A high-mounted rudderless vertical stabiliser is attached the rear of the fuselage to stabilise flight while in aircraft mode.

In the event of a single engine failure, either engine can provide power to both proprotors via a drive shaft. The AW609 is also capable of autorotation. The AW609 has been designed to achieve Full Transport Category/Class 1 performance, to operate safely even when flown under single engine conditions. It is equipped with a de-icing system, and is to be certified for flying into known icing conditions. Building on experiences with the V-22, the AW609 is outfitted with a sink rate warning system.{{sfn|Venanzi|Wells|2013|p=20}}

Avionics include a triple-redundant digital fly-by-wire flight control system, a head-up display system, and Full Authority Digital Engine Controls (FADEC). The cockpit has been designed so that the AW609 can be flown by a single pilot in instrument flight rules conditions.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/2012-07-11/agustawestland-names-three-key-suppliers-aw609-civil-tiltrotor |title=AgustaWestland Names Three Key Suppliers For AW609 Civil Tiltrotor |work=Aviation International News |first=Chad |last=Trautvetter |date=12 July 2012 |access-date=1 November 2012}}{{cite news |url=http://www.shephardmedia.com/news/rotorhub/rockwell-collins-pro-line-fusion-selected-aw609/ |title=Rockwell Collins' Pro Line Fusion selected for AW609 |work=Shephard Media |date=26 October 2012 |access-date=1 November 2012}} Several of the aircraft's controls, such as blade pitch, are designed to resemble and function their counterparts on conventional rotorcraft, enabling helicopter pilots to transition to the type more easily.

Elements of the aircraft's controls feature touchscreen interfaces. Shortly following AgustaWestland's full acquisition of the program, a substantial modernisation of the AW609's design was initiated in 2012. These changes included new engines and the redesigning of the cockpit. As part of the design refresh, new flight management systems, Northrop Grumman inertial and GPS navigation systems, and other avionics from Rockwell Collins were adopted.{{cite press release |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/news/agustawestland-aw609-tiltrotor-aerodynamic-improvements-set-boost-performance |title=AgustaWestland AW609 TiltRotor Aerodynamic Improvements Set To Boost Performance |publisher=AgustaWestland |date=3 September 2013 |access-date=3 December 2014}}{{cite press release |url=http://investor.northropgrumman.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=112386&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1902812 |title=Northrop Grumman Provides Inertial Navigation Products for TiltRotor Vertical Take-off and Landing Aircraft |publisher=Northrop Grumman |date=24 February 2014 |access-date=6 March 2014}}

File:Leonardo AW609 (N609PA, cn 63003) (10-20-2022).jpg

Bell/Agusta aimed the aircraft "at the government and military markets".{{cite web |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/product/ba609 |title=Products: BA609 |publisher=AgustaWestland |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100606090212/http://www.agustawestland.com/product/ba609 |archive-date=6 June 2010}} Another key market for the AW609 has been offshore oil and gas operations, which require aircraft capable of traversing the increasing distances involved.{{cite news |url=http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/commercial/eng/40-Years-Retrospective-Its-Been-a-Wild-Ride_14518.html |title=40 Years Retrospective: It's Been a Wild Ride |work=Rotor & Wing |first=Marcia Hillary |last=Kay |date=1 August 2007 |access-date=8 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140608203922/http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/commercial/eng/40-Years-Retrospective-Its-Been-a-Wild-Ride_14518.html |archive-date=8 June 2014}} In 2001, Bell estimated a market for 1,000 aircraft.{{Cite news |first=Hunter |last=Keeter |title=BA609 Team Confident V-22 Woes Won't Hurt Program, Will Apply Lessons |newspaper=Defense Daily |url-access= |date= |url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-74930647.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402093828/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-74930647.html|archive-date=2 April 2015}} Bell/Agusta stated in 2007 that they intend for the BA609 to compete with corporate business jets and helicopters, and that the BA609 would be of interest to any operator that has a mixed fleet of fixed wing and rotary wing aircraft.{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2008/02/15/221576/civil-rotorcraft-special-rotorcraft-makers-strive-to-break-the-civil-rotorcraft-speed-limit.html |title=Civil rotorcraft special: Rotorcraft makers strive to break the civil rotorcraft 'speed limit' |work=Flight International via FlightGlobal.com |first=John |last=Croft |date=15 February 2008 |access-date=14 February 2012}} In 2004, Lt. Gen. Michael Hough, USMC deputy commandant for aviation, requested that Bell conduct studies into arming the BA609, potentially to act as an escort for V-22s.{{cite news |url=http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/stories/2004/07/05/daily3.html |title=Bell asked to come up with a tilt-rotor gunship to escort V-22s |work=Dallas Business Journal |date=6 July 2004 |access-date=14 February 2012}} However, AgustaWestland's deal with Bell for taking over the BA609 program precludes the aircraft from carrying arms.

In 2001, Terry Stinson, then chairman and CEO of Bell Helicopters, declared that the aircraft will cost "at least {{US$|10 million}}".{{cite journal |url=http://www.aviationweek.com/shownews/01nbaa2/newsmk20.htm |title=Bell Takes 'Cautious' Stance on Economy |journal=Aviation Week |first=Rory |last=Cowan |year=2001 |access-date=10 October 2009}} In 2004, Don Barbour, then executive marketing director, stated that "early orders had been taken at a price of between $8 and $10 million." Since 1999, orders have been at a price to be confirmed no later than 24 months before aircraft delivery.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/Features/newrotorcraft03/ba609.html |title=Bell Augusta: BA609 |work=Aviation International News |year=2004 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040223172504/http://www.ainonline.com/Features/newrotorcraft03/ba609.html |archive-date=23 February 2004}} In 2012, industry reporters estimated that the final price tag may come to $30 million per unit.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/sites/ainonline.com/files/pdf/ain_new_rotorcraft2012.pdf |title=New Rotorcraft 2012 |work=Aviation International News |first1=Thierry |last1=Dubois |first2=Mark |last2=Huber |date=February 2012 |access-date=31 March 2012 |quote=...is now believed to have soared to $30 million. |archive-date=9 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160609172627/http://www.ainonline.com/sites/ainonline.com/files/pdf/ain_new_rotorcraft2012.pdf |url-status=dead }} In 2015, some believed the price to be only around $24 million.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2015-03-03/agustawestland-build-aw609-philadelphia |title=AgustaWestland to build AW609 in Philadelphia |work=Aviation International News |first=Mark |last=Huber |date=3 March 2015 |access-date=5 March 2015}}

In 1999, there were 77 confirmed orders.{{citation |last=Sarsfield |first=Kate |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bristow-order-launches-ab139-56899/ |title=Bristow order launches AB139 |work=Flightglobal |publisher=Reed Business Information |date=6 October 1999 |access-date=8 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150308153203/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/bristow-order-launches-ab139-56899/ |archive-date=8 March 2015 |url-status=live}} In 2012, there were 70 orders, depending on the final unit price. {{As of|2015|03}}, there were 60 orders for the AW609. The company intends to have production facilities ready for completing orders right after FAA certification.{{cite news |url=http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/AgustaWestlandcompletesautorotationtrialsforAW609program |title=AgustaWestland completes autorotation trials for AW609 program |work=Vertical |first=Elan |last=Head |date=25 April 2014 |access-date=24 April 2014}}

Bristow Helicopters intends to order 10 or more.{{cite news |url=http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2015-03-03/bristow-commits-being-partner-and-customer-aw609-civil-tiltrotor |title=Bristow Commits To Being Partner and Customer for AW609 Civil Tiltrotor |work=Aviation International News |first=Mark |last=Huber |date=3 March 2015 |access-date=5 March 2015 |archive-date=9 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150309044728/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2015-03-03/bristow-commits-being-partner-and-customer-aw609-civil-tiltrotor |url-status=dead }} Michael Bloomberg, the U.S. billionaire businessman and politician, is "near the top" of the list of buyers who have put a deposit down on the AW609 tiltrotor aircraft.{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/13/nyregion/in-mayor-bloombergs-jet-setting-heart-a-love-for-helicopters.html |title=In His Helicopter, Bloomberg Can Rule Skies, and Even Get to Albany |work=The New York Times |first1=Christine |last1=Haughney |first2=Michael M. |last2=Grynbaum |page=A1 |date=13 April 2012 |access-date=21 August 2014}} In February 2015, the Italian Army released a white paper documenting its vision of future procurement efforts. It included the intention to procure a force of tiltrotor aircraft for rapid troop-transport and medical evacuation duties. It has been speculated in the media that the AW609 is a likely candidate for the requirement.Kington, Tom. [http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/land/weapons/2015/02/14/italy-army-vehicle-freccia-budget-helicopter-iveco-oto-melara-agustawestland-white-paper/23320857/ "Italian Army Lays Out Future Vision."] Defense News, 14 January 2015. In November 2015, United Arab Emirates selected a search and rescue variant of the AW609, signing a memorandum of understanding for three, with an option for three more.{{cite news |url=http://www.defensenews.com/story/defense/show-daily/dubai-air-show/2015/11/10/uae-tiltrotor-aw609-beats-v22/75501164/ |title=UAE Picks AW609 for Tiltrotor Requirement |last1=Mustafa |first1=Awad |last2=Mehta |first2=Aaron |date=10 November 2015 |website=www.defensenews.com |publisher=TEGNA |access-date=10 November 2015}} As of May 2019, no contract with the UAE has been signed.{{cite web |last1=Jennings |first1=Gareth |title=UAE deal for AW609 tiltrotors looks in doubt |url=https://www.janes.com/article/88970/uae-deal-for-aw609-tiltrotors-looks-in-doubt |website=Jane's 360 |access-date=31 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190531164838/https://www.janes.com/article/88970/uae-deal-for-aw609-tiltrotors-looks-in-doubt |archive-date=31 May 2019 |location=London |date=31 May 2019 |url-status=live }}

Currently being built at AWPC Philadelphia,{{Cite web |title=AW609 tiltrotor in final production configuration flies in Philadelphia |url=https://usa.leonardocompany.com/en/press-release-detail/-/detail/aw609-tiltrotor-in-final-production-configuration-flies-in-philadelphia |access-date=2022-08-26 |website=usa.leonardocompany.com |language=en-US}} in March 2022, Leonardo projected entry into service as early as 2023.{{Cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/helicopters/leonardo-secures-new-customer-for-aw609-tiltrotor-and-targets-2023-service-entry-/147837.article|title=Leonardo secures new customer for AW609 tiltrotor and targets 2023 service entry|website=Flight Global}} In 2023, the AW609 entered the final stage of flight certification, and {{as of|2024|lc=on}} it is estimated this process could be completed as early as 2025.{{Cite web |title=Leonardo targeting 'early 2025' for completion of AW609 certification activities |url=https://verticalmag.com/news/leonardo-targeting-early-2025-for-completion-of-aw609-certification-activities/ |access-date=2024-04-28 |website=Vertical Mag |language=en-US}}

On 30 October 2015, the second of the two prototypes (N609AG), which first flew in 2006, crashed near AgustaWestland's Vergiate facility in North West Italy, killing long-time test pilots Pietro Venanzi and Herb Moran.{{cite news |url=http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/33118 |title=AW609 prototype crashes; both pilots killed |work=Vertical |first=Oliver |last=Johnson |date=30 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151103002403/http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/33118 |archive-date=3 November 2015 }} The aircraft broke up in midair after 27 minutes of flight, on a flight plan that included high speed testing.{{cite news |url=http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/AgustaWestlandAW609wasperforminghighspeedtestsondayofcrash |title=AgustaWestland: AW609 was performing high-speed tests on day of crash |work=Vertical |first=Oliver |last=Johnson |date=9 November 2015}}{{cite news |url=http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/services/flight-testing/AW609-Broke-Up-in-Midair-Intl-Team-Seeks-Clues_86750.html |title=AW609 Broke Up in Midair; Int'l Team Seeks Clues |work=Rotor & Wing International |date=16 December 2015 |access-date=17 December 2015 |archive-date=19 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151219053258/http://www.aviationtoday.com/rw/services/flight-testing/AW609-Broke-Up-in-Midair-Intl-Team-Seeks-Clues_86750.html }} Investigators consider the most likely cause to be changes in flight control laws and tail changes. These led to a "Dutch roll" instability while diving at {{cvt|542|km/h|kn mph kph|order=out}} where previously only {{convert|285|kn|mph km/h|abbr=on}} had been achieved.{{cite news |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/aw609-control-laws-initiated-dutch-roll-investiga-426696/ |title=AW609 control laws initiated 'Dutch roll': investigators |work=FlightGlobal |first=Dominic |last=Perry |date=24 June 2016 |access-date=25 June 2016}}{{cite news |url=http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/AW609-flight-control-laws-may-have-contributed-to-fatal-accident |title=AW609 flight control laws may have contributed to fatal accident |work=Vertical |first=Elan |last=Head |date=25 June 2016 |access-date=25 June 2016}}{{cite web |url=http://www.ansv.it/It/Detail_relazioni.asp?ID=2003 |title=Tronzano Vercellese (VC), AW609 registration marks N609AG: Interim Statement |publisher=Agenzia Nazionale per la Sicurezza del Volo |access-date=25 June 2016 |archive-date=29 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160629121948/http://www.ansv.it/It/Detail_relazioni.asp?ID=2003 }} The Italian authorities seized the third prototype in May 2016,{{cite news |url=http://www.janes.com/article/60742/italian-authorities-seize-aw609-prototype-as-investigations-into-fatal-crash-continue |title=Italian authorities seize AW609 prototype as investigations into fatal crash continue |work=IHS Jane's Defence Weekly |first=Gareth |last=Jennings |date=26 May 2016 |access-date=27 May 2016}} and returned it for flight testing in July.{{cite news |url=http://www.verticalmag.com/news/third-aw609-prototype-returned-leonardo/ |title=Third AW609 prototype returned to Leonardo |work=Vertical |first=Elan |last=Head |date=12 July 2016 |access-date=27 August 2016}}

The final report stated that during a high-speed dive with a left turn, "slight lateral-direction oscillations" started on roll-out and grew in amplitude and frequency. The pilot attempted to correct the roll with "counterphase input roll manoeuvres and then pedal inputs", but this did not dampen the oscillations. They instead became divergent, bringing the sideslip angle at 10.5°, well above the 4° maximum allowed, "inducing contact of the right proprotor with the right wing due to excessive flapping of the proprotor blades". This severed fuel and hydraulic lines in the wing leading edge, triggering a fire.{{cite news |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/flawed-flight-control-logic-triggered-aw609s-in-fli-437084/ |title=Flawed flight-control logic triggered AW609's in-flight break-up: report |work=FlightGlobal |first=Dominic |last=Perry |date=10 May 2017 |access-date=11 May 2017}}{{cite web |url=http://www.ansv.it/It/Detail_relazioni.asp?ID=2045 |title=Tronzano Vercellese (VC), AW609 registration marks N609AG; Final Report |publisher=Agenzia Nazionale per la Sicurezza del Volo |access-date=22 May 2017}}

File:AW-609.jpg

{{Aircraft specs

|ref=Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2004-05{{cite book |title=Jane's all the World's Aircraft 2004-05 |editor1-last=Jackson |editor1-first=Paul |year=2005 |publisher=Jane's Publishing Group |location=London |isbn=0-7106-2614-2}}The International Directory of Civil Aircraft, 2003–2004, Jane's 2000, the BA609 and AW609 data sheets{{cite web |url=http://www.agustawestland.com/documents/17633750/26143301/body_AW609.pdf |title=AW609 Tiltrotor |publisher=AgustaWestland |date=2014 |access-date=14 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414111042/http://www.agustawestland.com/documents/17633750/26143301/body_AW609.pdf |archive-date=14 April 2015 }} and others{{cite news |url=http://www.aviationtoday.com/the-checklist/The-AW609-Tilt-Rotor-2014s-Best-Ride_83577.html |title=The AW609 Tilt Rotor: 2014's Best Ride |work=Aviation Today |first=Ernie |last=Stephens |date=1 December 2014 |access-date=1 December 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202001100/http://www.aviationtoday.com/the-checklist/The-AW609-Tilt-Rotor-2014s-Best-Ride_83577.html |archive-date=2 December 2014 |url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://www.aeroglob.org/en/articles/agusta-westland-aw609-tiltrotor-35.html |title=Agusta Westland AW609 Tiltrotor |work=Aeroglob |access-date=14 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414210516/http://www.aeroglob.org/en/articles/agusta-westland-aw609-tiltrotor-35.html |archive-date=14 April 2015 }}

|prime units?=met

|genhide=

|crew=2

|capacity=6 to 9 passengers or {{convert|5500|lb|kg|abbr=on}} payload

|length m=13.4

|span m=10

|span note= (distance between prop-rotor centres)

|dia m=

|dia ft=

|dia in=

|dia note=

|width m=18.3

|width note=rotors turning

|height m=4.6

|height note=to top of fin

|wing area sqm=

|wing area sqft=

|wing area note=

|aspect ratio=

|airfoil=

|empty weight kg=4765

|empty weight lb=

|empty weight note=

|gross weight kg=

|gross weight lb=

|gross weight note=

|max takeoff weight kg=7620

|max takeoff weight lb=

|max takeoff weight note=

|fuel capacity=

|more general=

• Cabin height: {{convert|4|ft|8|in|m|2|abbr=on}}
• Cabin width: {{convert|4|ft|10|in|m|2|abbr=on}}
• Cabin length: {{convert|13|ft|5|in|m|2|abbr=on}}

|eng1 number=2

|eng1 name=Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67A

|eng1 type=turboshaft engines

|eng1 kw=1447

|eng1 hp=

|eng1 shp=

|eng1 note=

|rot number=2

|rot dia m=7.9

|rot dia ft=

|rot dia in=

|rot area sqm=49

|rot area sqft=

|rot area note=each - 3-bladed prop-rotors

|max speed kmh=

|max speed mph=

|max speed kts=275

|max speed note=

|max speed mach=

|cruise speed kmh=509

|cruise speed note=maximum

|never exceed speed kmh=

|never exceed speed mph=

|never exceed speed kts=

|never exceed speed note=

|range km=1389

|range note=normal fuel + {{convert|2500|kg|abbr=on}} payload at {{convert|463|kph|mph kn|abbr=on}}

|ferry range km=1852

|endurance=3 hours with normal fuel

|ceiling m=7620

|ceiling note=

• Hover Ceiling out of Ground Effect (HOGE): {{convert|1525|m|abbr=on}}

|g limits=+3.1 -1

|roll rate=

|climb rate ms=7.616

|climb rate note=at sea level

|time to altitude=

|lift to drag=

|wing loading kg/m2=

|wing loading lb/sqft=

|wing loading note=

|disk loading kg/m2=77.4

|disk loading note=max

|fuel consumption kg/km=

|fuel consumption lb/mi=

|power/mass=

|more performance=

|avionics=*Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21 package, including:

• VOR
• DME
• ILS
• ADF
• dual VHF radios
• Rockwell Collins ALT-4000 radar altimeter
• GPS
• TCAS
• FDR
• 3x LCD displays with standby instruments
• Rockwell Collins WXR-800 solid-state weather radar

}}

File:50 Volandia - Bell-Agusta BA609 TiltRotor - Flickr - KlausNahr.jpg

{{aircontent

|see also=

• European Future Advanced Rotorcraft (EuroFAR)
• Convertiplane

|related=

• Bell XV-3
• Bell XV-15
• Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey
• Bell V-280 Valor

|lists=

• List of VTOL aircraft

}}

{{Reflist|30em}}

• {{cite conference |url=http://www.sfte2013.com/files/78635976.pdf |title=AW609 TiltRotor Flight Test Program Overview |conference=2013 Flight Test Symposium. November 2013. Fort Worth, Texas. |first1=Pietro |last1=Venanzi |first2=Dan |last2=Wells |date=November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151004211056/http://www.sfte2013.com/files/78635976.pdf |archive-date=4 October 2015}}

• {{cite conference |url=http://halfdome.arc.nasa.gov/publications/files/Acree_AHSVLADC2006.pdf |title=Performance, Loads and Stability of Heavy Lift Tiltrotors |conference=AHS Vertical Lift Aircraft Design Conference. 18–20 January 2006. San Francisco, California. |publisher=NASA |first1=Cecil W. Jr.|last1=Acree |first2=Wayne R. |last2=Johnson |year=2006 |id=20060013409 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111017113959/http://halfdome.arc.nasa.gov/publications/files/Acree_AHSVLADC2006.pdf |archive-date=17 October 2011 }}

{{commons category|AgustaWestland AW609}}

• [http://www.leonardocompany.com/en/product-services/elicotteri_helicopters/aw609 AgustaWestland AW609] at LeonardoCompany.com
• [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lsqZncW9kkw AW609 promotional video] by AgustaWestland at YouTube.com
• [http://www.avweb.com/videos/Video-AW609-Tiltrotor-223658-1.html Video of VIP and Rescue interiors, interview with test pilot] by AVweb

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{{AgustaWestland aircraft}}

Category:2000s international civil utility aircraft

Category:Tiltrotor aircraft

Category:AgustaWestland aircraft

Category:Aircraft first flown in 2003

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AW609

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