Aircraft Intended For Search And Rescue Missions

The China Ministry of Transport (MOT) has taken delivery of six Sikorsky S-76D helicopters intended for Search and Rescue Operations (SAR), further enhancing the MOT's maritime capabilities.

The MOT’s S-76D helicopter fleet is on track to include a total of eight S-76D aircraft by the end of the year.

In December 2012, the China MOT purchased four S-76D SAR helicopters, and then contracted for four additional aircraft of the same model in July 2013. The latest SAR contract is the fifth that China's MOT has awarded to Sikorsky for the S-76 series of helicopters since 2000. When these eight aircraft are delivered, the MOT will operate a fleet of 16 S-76 helicopters, which have formed the foundation of China's aerial SAR capabilities for maritime operations.
 
“We have been operating the Sikorsky S-76 helicopter for more than a decade and have saved many lives with these helicopters,” said Capt. Pan Wei, Chief Engineer, Bureau of Rescue and Salvage, Ministry of Transport. “The addition of the S-76D to our fleet will enhance our operational capabilities”.
 
"Sikorsky has a rich history working together with China’s MOT and this year, we celebrate the 30th year since the introduction of Sikorsky helicopters to China.  The search and rescue life-saving missions performed by the China MOT fulfill Igor Sikorsky's dream and vision for our product,” said Nathalie Previte, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Sikorsky Commercial Systems & Services. “We are extremely humbled and appreciative that Sikorsky continues to serve and remains a part of the China MOT heritage.”
 
Since January 2014, Sikorsky has completed S-76D deliveries into all mission segments including offshore oil, search and rescue, VIP and air medical transportation.  Sikorsky has delivered more than 800 S-76 helicopters to customers globally since 1979, contributing daily to a growing of more than 6.7-million flight hours.

FMI: www.sikorsky.com