Sikorsky has begun deliveries of the upgraded S-76C++ twin-turbine helicopter as the manufacturer continues to benefit from the resurgence in the offshore support market.
With more-powerful Turbomeca Arriel 2S2 engines, the S-76C++ received US certification in late December, the first aircraft going to Petroleum Helicopters (PHI) for offshore support missions.
Sikorsky says more than 60 S-76C++ helicopters are on order. The upgraded aircraft replaces the S-76C+ and will remain in production until the substantially improved S-76D becomes available. In addition to the uprated engines, which increase payload by about 160kg (350lb) in hot-and-high conditions, the C++ has a quiet main gearbox, health and usage monitoring system (HUMS) and engine inlet barrier filters.
To the new Quiet Zone gearbox and Honeywell VXP HUMS in the C++, the S-76D will add more powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S engines, Thales TopDeck integrated flightdeck, composite main rotor blades and quiet tail rotor, both with integral electrical de-icing. The D is planned for delivery at the end of 2008.
Most of the 20-plus S-92 medium twin-turbine helicopters Sikorsky has delivered so far have also gone to the burgeoning offshore oil and gas sector.
Source: Flight International
