Leonardo AW139.

The Leonardo AW139 charter is one of the most sought-after helicopter options in the region, combining genuine twin-engine reliability with a spacious cabin capable of accommodating up to twelve passengers. Whether you require an offshore transfer, a VIP city hop, or an aerial sightseeing experience across the Emirates, the AW139 delivers consistently across all mission types. Its blend of range, speed and cabin volume makes it a benchmark in the medium-lift helicopter category.

History & Development

The AW139 was developed through a joint venture between Agusta and Bell before Leonardo Helicopters took full ownership of the programme. It entered commercial and VIP service in the mid-2000s and quickly established itself as a global standard for medium-category rotorcraft, finding operators across offshore energy, search and rescue, government transport and private charter. The variant reflected in this specification entered service in 2019, benefiting from ongoing refinements to avionics, systems integration and interior finishing standards accumulated over the programme’s production history. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67C turboshaft engines, the AW139 holds a strong reputation for redundancy and reliability in demanding operating environments, including the high-temperature conditions typical of the Gulf region.

Cabin & Comfort

The AW139 cabin is notably wide and tall for its category, providing a level of space rarely associated with helicopter travel. Configured for VIP charter, the interior accommodates up to twelve passengers and is typically appointed with leather seating, climate control and acoustic insulation designed to reduce the noise intrusion common in older rotorcraft. Baggage capacity is practical for short-haul requirements, and the large sliding doors on both sides of the fuselage make boarding and disembarking straightforward, even at busy helipads. Visibility from the cabin is generous, which is a meaningful factor on scenic or sightseeing itineraries across the UAE.

Performance

The AW139 cruises at approximately 165 knots and carries a maximum range of around 573 nautical miles, placing destinations across the wider Gulf Cooperation Council comfortably within reach on a single fuel load. Twin-engine architecture provides an important safety margin, and the aircraft is certified to operate in hot-and-high conditions — a practical necessity in the Middle East, where summer temperatures routinely affect rotorcraft performance. The PT6C-67C engines are well-proven powerplants with a strong track record across multiple aircraft types and operators globally.

Ideal Routes from Dubai

The AW139’s range and speed make it particularly well suited to transfer, leisure and light utility missions across the Emirates and neighbouring Gulf states. Typical itineraries from Dubai include:

• Dubai to Abu Dhabi — approximately 20–25 minutes, ideal for executive transfers between the two cities
• Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah — approximately 20 minutes, popular for resort access and mountain excursions
• Dubai to Sir Bani Yas Island — approximately 60–70 minutes, suited to leisure and wildlife reserve visits
• Dubai to Doha — within range for direct routing across the Gulf, subject to overflight permissions
• Offshore platform transfers — energy sector and marine asset support within UAE waters and the wider Gulf
• Aerial sightseeing over Dubai and the coastline — bespoke scenic routes tailored to group or VIP requirements

Charter the Leonardo AW139 with Prime Jet Services

Prime Jet Services arranges AW139 charters from Dubai across the full range of mission types — executive transfer, group leisure, offshore support and bespoke itineraries. As an independent broker, we source competitive operator pricing and manage scheduling, permits and ground logistics on your behalf. If your dates are flexible, we can also identify empty-leg flights that may reduce the cost of your journey considerably. To discuss a specific requirement or receive a tailored quote, contact our team directly and we will respond promptly with options suited to your itinerary.