A grand impression

AgustaWestland’s Grand AW109

With a long nose which widens gradually to a streamlined fuselage then tapers stylishly to the tail, AgustaWestland’s AW109 series has always struck me as the epitome of rotary elegance, none moreso than in its Grand iteration.

The main reason why the Grand looks more elegant and streamlined than older versions is because the cabin is 30cm longer than that of the Power. This might not sound like much, but it means that in the VIP version, where it can be configured with six seats in the back (or four seats plus a drinks cabinet if you prefer), there was a great deal more legroom. Of course, all that extra space is useful in an air ambulance or any other utility version too.