Bahrain 2012: Hello helo - Sikorsky S-76C++

The aircraft is the first – and possibly the last – of the type to be delivered new in the region to an unnamed customer. The model has now officially “sold out”.

Richard Crann, Sikorsky’s sales support manager, worldwide sales said: “The aircraft is ideal for VIP transport and is maintained at the airbase here. Pilots can train on the type at Flight Safety International in Farnborough, UK or Florida, US.”

Abu Dhabi-based charter company Falcon Aircraft Services is the launch customer for the next generation of the type, the S-76D, and will take delivery of the first one later this year, probably around September.

The S76D is the sixth upgrade of the S76 series and will deliver a 1,000-pound increase in useful load for category A, hot-day take-off performance as well as offer an extended range over the C++.

Although there will be no increase in gross weight, Sikorsky says that S-76D operators will notice improved manoeuvrability and enhanced performance from the lightweight, all-new composite main and tail rotor blades. There is also an upgraded electrical system and a next-generation avionics system jointly developed by Sikorsky and Thales.

Another important enhancement will be certification for flight into known icing conditions, which will help improve despatch reliability.

For passengers, the company has created a new interior, dubbed “Silencer,” with active vibration control technology, as well as a quieter tail rotor, which means less noise during take-off.

Crann added: “The aircraft will feel pretty good and have 40% more power, as well as operating more effectively in hot and high conditions.”