Sikorsky S-76C++

The executive helicopter built for speed, refinement, and offshore reliability

Overview

Sikorsky Helicopter United States 2006–Present $13 million (2014)

The Sikorsky S-76C++ is a twin-engine medium helicopter developed for corporate, offshore, and government missions. It represents one of the most refined versions of the long-running S-76 family. The aircraft combines executive comfort with strong operational performance.

Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × Turboméca Arriel 2S1
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
2 × 922 shp · 688 kW
Avionics
Honeywell Avionics
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
12
Crew
—
Cabin width
6 ft 4 in  ·  1.93 m
Cabin height
4 ft 5 in  ·  1.35 m
Cabin length
7 ft 11 in  ·  2.41 m
Exterior length
52 ft 6 in  ·  16.00 m
Tail height
—
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
44 ft 0 in  ·  13.41 m
Baggage volume
35 ft³  ·  1.0 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
11,700 lb  ·  5,300 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
3,450 lb  ·  1,600 kg
Fuel capacity
280 gal · 1,100 L · 900 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
155 kt  ·  178 mph  ·  287 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
345 nm  ·  400 mi  ·  640 km
Fuel burn
1.23 nm/gal  ·  0.60 km/L
Ceiling
15,000 ft  ·  4,600 m
Rate of climb
1,350 ft/min  ·  7 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Japan Coast Guard Sikorsky S 76C

Operational Context

Sikorsky S-76C++ — upgraded twin-engine executive helicopter

The S-76 first flew in 1977 as Sikorsky’s entry into the commercial twin-engine helicopter market. The C++ variant, introduced in the 2000s, incorporated more powerful Turbomeca Arriel 2S2 engines and updated avionics. These improvements enhanced climb performance and hot-and-high capability compared with earlier models.

The S-76C++ cruises at approximately 155 knots (287 km/h) and has a range of roughly 400 nautical miles (740 km). Maximum takeoff weight is around 11,700 pounds (5,300 kg). The helicopter typically accommodates two pilots and up to 12 passengers depending on interior layout.

Widely used in offshore transport and executive roles, the S-76C++ gained a reputation for reliability and passenger comfort. It has served corporate operators and government agencies worldwide. The model represents a mature stage in the evolution of one of Sikorsky’s most successful civil helicopter families.

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