S-76D Gets FAA Type Certification

Sikorsky's long-delayed S-76D has been awarded type certification by the FAA, it has emerged.

The aircraft, the latest variant of the highly successful S-76 family, was officially certified by the FAA on 12 October following an extensive flight test programme. Sikorsky claims it has a backlog of orders for the new aircraft worth nearly $500 million. First deliveries are expected to begin in the coming weeks.

Carey Bond, President of Sikorsky Global Helicopters, said: 'Our customers are excited to begin receiving the S-76D into their fleets. We are equally excited to deliver a new product that represents three and a half decades of continuous product improvement, to offer them a helicopter with improved efficiency, power and best-in-class noise signature.'

While the certification is being heralded by Sikorsky, the new aircraft is around two year’s late. The first aircraft had been due to be delivered to customers in 2010.

The delays were reportedly due to issues with the integration of the Thales Topdeck avionics suite and the late certification of the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S engines which were signed off by the FAA in October 2011.

The new S-76D features a Rotor Ice Protection System (RIPS) which improves the type's all weather capability. Other features include active vibration control to improve passenger comfort, while the rotor system has been designed to reduce noise levels.