The subject of float arming was discussed back in January, from
Post 958 on.
Eivissa posted this from the AW139 Flight Manual:
GENERAL INFORMATION
Emergency Flotation and Life Raft System Part N° 3G9560F00111
The flotation bags are automatically deployed on ditching by water sensors (2 of the four sensors must be activated for flotation inflation) or by manual operation of the guarded FLOAT pushbutton on either the Pilot or Copilot collective grip.
For operation of both automatic or manual flotation inflation the switch on the FLOATS EMERG control panel mounted in the interseat console (pilots side), must be set to ON. The control panel also incorporates a self test function for the flotation system.
WARNING
Do not deploy flotation bags in flight. Bags will automatically deploy on water touchdown.
IN FLIGHT PROCEDURES
1. FLOATS EMER switch
Over land operation — Confirm OFF.
Over water operation — Confirm ARMED, FLOAT ARM caution displayed on CAS