Middle East Operator Plans To Buy 4 Of The Composite Helos

In an announcement Monday from the Dubai Airshow, Sikorsky Aircraft revealed that Falcon Aviation Services (FAS) has contracted to purchase two Sikorsky S-76D  helicopters, with options to purchase two more, becoming the worldwide launch customer for the new aircraft. FAS is based in Abu Dhabi and provides a wide array of helicopter and jet services, ranging from aerial tours to offshore oil and gas transport and corporate jet charter.

The S-76D helicopters are scheduled for delivery to FAS starting in 2011. The aircraft will be configured for VIP corporate, helitaxi, and offshore oil and gas support missions.  The S-76D helicopters will become the first Sikorsky aircraft in the FAS fleet, which currently numbers 21 helicopters and five corporate jets.

"We are thrilled to become part of the FAS fleet and to have the opportunity to demonstrate the ability of the S-76D helicopter to excel in the Middle East environment," said Carey Bond, President of Sikorsky Global Helicopters and Chief Marketing Officer.  "This multi-mission helicopter represents the very latest in the long and highly successful line of S-76 aircraft."     

S-76D Artists Concept

The S-76D helicopter's features include all-composite, flaw-tolerant main rotor blades, an advanced Thales avionics system and autopilot, dual speed rotor with active vibration control, Pratt & Whitney Canada 210S engines, a quiet mode for enhanced public acceptance, and an optional Rotor Ice Protection System (RIPS) for all-weather capability.

The S-76D helicopter also will offer an increase in useful load and extended range performance versus the S-76C+ and S-76C++ aircraft currently fielded.  The S-76D helicopter completed its first flight on February 7, 2009, and is scheduled to enter production in 2010.

FMI: www.sikorsky.com