The story
The AW101 Merlin is a three-engine medium-heavy helicopter built for the worst conditions on Earth. Anti-submarine hunts in the North Atlantic, mountain rescue in Norway, VIPs in between — and a third engine to fall back on if one fails.
Norway flies the AW101 as its national search-and-rescue helicopter, the 'SAR Queen', which took over from the last Sea Kings in 2023.
Quick answers
How do you identify a AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin?
Big five-blade rotor and three engines grouped on top of the cabin. If it looks too big to be a twin, it isn't one.
What does a AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin sound like?
Three RTM322s and a five-blade rotor — a dense, layered thrum unlike any twin.
How fast is the AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin?
Top speed is 167 kts.
How many passengers does the AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin carry?
Up to 30. A typical layout is SAR / ASW crew of 4.
How far can the AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin fly?
Range is about 750 nmi (max).
How big is the AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin?
It is 74 ft 10 in long and 61 ft 0 in across the rotor.
When did the AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin first fly?
Its first flight was in 1987.
How many AgustaWestland AW101 Merlins have been built?
200+ built.
How rare is a AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin in Bogey?
UNCOMMON. Not rare, but not every day either. Worth looking up for. Your first AgustaWestland AW101 Merlin catch is worth 50 points.
