Sikorsky S-76
The Sikorsky S-76 is a medium twin-engine helicopter built specifically for corporate, VIP, and offshore transport, positioned as a faster, more comfortable alternative to the larger, more utilitarian helicopters common in offshore oil work. Its retractable landing gear, unusual among helicopters, reduces drag and boosts cruise speed compared with fixed-skid rivals of similar size. Decades of continuous updates have kept it in production since 1977, with modern versions used for offshore transport, EMS, and head-of-state VIP transport worldwide. It remains one of the most widely used medium twin helicopters in commercial service today.
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Did you know?
The S-76 is one of few helicopters with retractable landing gear, a feature that cuts drag and boosts its cruise speed.
Specifications
| Length | 13.4 m (44 ft) |
|---|---|
| Height | 4.4 m (14 ft) |
| Rotor diameter | 13.4 m (44 ft) |
| Maximum passengers | 12 |
| Persons on board | 15 |
| Maximum take-off weight | 5.3 t |
| Range | 411 NM (761 km) |
| Maximum speed | 155 kt (287 km/h) |
| Service ceiling | 13,800 ft (4,206 m) |
| Optimum ceiling | 8,000 ft (2,438 m) |
| Rate of climb | 1,600 ft/min (8.1 m/s) |
| Fuel capacity | 1,064 l |
| Engines | 2x Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6B/PT6C |
| Units built | 875 |
Curated by CatchFlights from manufacturer documents, ICAO Doc 8643 and reference works; values are left out where no source could confirm them. Sources are listed on our credits page.
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