AW189 Full Surround Docking for Comprehensive Maintenance
The Leonardo AW189 Full Surround Access System provides foundational, uninterrupted access for comprehensive maintenance, inspection, and repair operations on this large twin-engine, 8-ton class helicopter. Designed for total coverage, this modular system encircles the aircraft from the main rotor area to the tail rotor. Technicians can safely and efficiently reach every critical point. The full docking configuration includes the Interconnecting Tail Boom Stand, Interconnecting Bridge, Side Access Stand, and Tail Stand. These components assemble seamlessly to create an uninterrupted work area, yet maintain the flexibility to be utilized independently for targeted maintenance tasks. A core design principle of this AW189 Full Surround Docking system is safety and operational efficiency.
Unobstructed Cockpit and Cabin Access
The stands are carefully configured to ensure that access into the cabin and cockpit remains completely unobstructed. This allows for simultaneous avionic checks, interior repairs, and flight deck preparation while other maintenance activities occur on the exterior airframe and dynamic components. Furthermore, the system is fully provisioned with practical utilities, including compressed air hookups, conveniently located power outlets, and integrated lighting. These features minimize clutter and the hazards associated with trailing cables and hoses, creating a safer, more organized, and productive maintenance environment.
Main Rotor and Engine Servicing
The Side Access Stand and Interconnecting Bridge components are instrumental in addressing the critical maintenance areas atop the AW189. Given the helicopter’s size and height—particularly the engines positioned on top of the fuselage and the main rotor head—elevated access is mandatory. These platforms provide stable, level footing for engineers working on the main rotor system, including the 5-blade main rotor and associated gearboxes. The platforms ensure safe reach for routine servicing of the engines, oil levels, and the hydraulic systems. The high roofline itself poses a significant fall risk; the AW189 Full Surround Docking system mitigates this by providing secure, compliant working surfaces across the entire upper section of the airframe.
Secure Tail Section Maintenance
Moving toward the rear of the aircraft, the Interconnecting Tail Boom Stand is specifically engineered to grant secure passage and workspace along the length of the tail boom. This section is crucial for accessing control surfaces and internal mechanisms before connecting to the specialized Tail Stand. The Tail Stand addresses the unique challenges presented by the AW189’s canted tail rotor. The Tail Stand provides multi-level access to the tail rotor assembly, horizontal stabilizers, and the entire tail section, ensuring compliance with height and reach regulations while enhancing user safety.
Modular Design for Flexibility
The system’s modularity allows for precision maintenance operations, such as specialized engine work stands being integrated or utilized when the full surround is not required. Dedicated nose stands and side stands ensure that areas like the retractable landing gear are easily and safely accessible for inspection, lubrication, and repair. This comprehensive approach ensures that every maintenance task can be executed with maximum safety and minimal downtime, making the process significantly more efficient than relying on disparate ladders. Explore our related access solutions, such as the Leonardo AW189 Side Access Platforms. The final assembled AW189 Full Surround Docking system is sturdy, stable, and designed specifically to meet the rigorous demands of maintaining the AW189 fleet, guaranteeing technicians have the necessary elevation and support across all parts of the airframe.
