November 2, 2007: New Zealand is buying five A109LUHs (Light Utility Helicopter), and one simulator (PHOTO). This equipment will be used as pilot trainers, to provide crews for the larger, ten ton, NH90 choppers. The A109 is a 2.8 ton helicopter that can operate with one or two pilots, and carry up to eight passengers. In addition to its training duties, the A109s will also be used as a light transport. The A109 is similar to the U.S. UH-1, but is of more modern (ten years after the UH-1) design.