Sikorsky will launch a re-engined version of the S-76 medium twin-turbine helicopter at this week's Heli-Expo show in Anaheim, California. The new S-76D will have more powerful turboshafts providing Category A single-engine performance and greater hot-and-high capability.
The new model goes beyond the programme under way to upgrade the current S-76C+ with the 6%-uprated Turbomeca Arriel 2S2 to produce the S-76C++, says Jeff Pino, senior vice-president marketing and commercial programmes. The unidentified engine will provide 7-10% more power and be combined with new composite main and tail rotors and a new cockpit.
The new rotors will be "completely de-iced", says Pino, to allow flight into known icing. The S-76D is to become available in 2008. Production of the S-76 is at record levels, says Pino, driven mainly by the offshore support market. The move is intended to meet competition in the corporate and offshore sectors from the Bell/Agusta Aerospace AB139.
Source: Flight International
