Sikorsky S-76D

The modern twin-engine helicopter built for offshore and executive transport.

Overview

Sikorsky Helicopter United States 2009–Onward $13 million (2014)

The Sikorsky S-76D represents the latest major evolution of the long-running S-76 family. Introduced in the 2010s, it incorporates upgraded engines, avionics, and rotor systems. The helicopter is widely used for offshore energy transport and VIP missions.

Specifications

Units
Engine
—
Engine type
Turbine
Thrust
1,050 lbf · 5 kN
Avionics
Thales 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
38 ft³  ·  1.1 m³
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
11,700 lb  ·  5,300 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
3,500 lb  ·  1,600 kg
Fuel capacity
300 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
441 nm  ·  510 mi  ·  820 km
Fuel burn
1.49 nm/gal  ·  0.73 km/L
Ceiling
15,000 ft  ·  4,600 m
Rate of climb
—
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Sikorsky S 76D Executive Transport helicopter

Operational Context

Sikorsky S-76D — twin-engine utility helicopter

The S-76D first flew in 2009 and entered service in 2012 as an advanced development of earlier S-76 variants. It introduced composite main rotor blades and a modern glass cockpit. The airframe retained the streamlined fuselage that has characterized the series since the late 1970s.

Power is provided by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S turboshaft engines, each producing approximately 1,077 shaft horsepower. Cruise speed approaches 155 knots (287 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 11,700 pounds (5,307 kg), supporting a typical seating capacity of 12 passengers.

The S-76D has become a standard aircraft for offshore oil and gas operators and corporate transport providers. Its updated systems improve fuel efficiency and reliability compared with earlier versions. The model continues the S-76’s role as a benchmark in the medium twin helicopter segment.

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