- 23 Mar 2023
- Chris Kjelgaard
- Engines - BizAv
The S-76C++ is the final variant of Sikorsky's highly regarded S-76 twin turbine helicopter before introduction of the S-76D. It is a further improved version of the S-76C+ with new Turbomeca Arriel 2S2 engines, a new gearbox, higher takeoff weight, the Honeywell VXP usage monitoring system (HUMS), larger cabin windows and EGPWS and TCAS systems.
Mira Aviation
The Sikorsky S-76C++ on average costs $3.5m for a 2006 model up to $6.8m for a 2012 model, according to Aircraft Bluebook’s summer 2021 data. These values represent average retail prices for the model years. Prices of individual helicopters could be more or less than the average retail price for their particular model year, depending on how well maintained they are, damage history, airframe and engine hours, and the proximity of the next major inspection or overhaul.
There are a range of potential options for operators on the market that compete with the Sikorsky S-76C++, depending on their capacity and operational needs. The newer S-76D, as a more modern variant of the S-76C++, that could hold appeal for many. Alternatively the Airbus H145 is competitive with the Sikorsky S-76C++.
The Sikorsky S-76C++ offers operators a powerful aircraft with a large capacity, and it holds strong appeal for those who need a medium-sized platform in the VIP/corporate role. Moreover, the aircraft is a member of the S-76 series, which Sikorsky says has a best-in-class safety record. Counted on to transport passengers daily, operators of Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopters can expect mission-readiness, reduced pilot workload, and a wide range of other benefits.
The S-76D helicopter is the current production aircraft in this product line, offering all composite main and tail rotor blades with a modern airfoil, a fully integrated Thales TopDeck Cockpit and an increased capacity electrical system. Many options on previous models, including on the S-76C++ have gone baseline and are included in all S-76D aircraft, including the Health and Usage Monitoring System and the Cockpit Voice and Flight Data Recording system. Pilots and passengers of the S-76D also enjoy reduced noise and vibration compared with earlier models. Finally, the S-76D introduced a slightly increased gross weight compared to earlier versions, including the S-76C++.
Sikorsky S-76C++ Turbine Helicopter Overview
By Gerrard Cowan - Editor, Aircraft Reviews
The Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter was launched in 2006, replacing the S-76C+ on the production line. The aircraft has a range of approximately 400 nautical miles, and, like other aircraft in the family, accommodates 12 passengers and two crew members. Significantly, the S-76C++ introduced a range of upgrades to the series.
Over the course of its production, Sikorsky produced 212 S-76C++ aircraft, according to JETNET data.
What features does the Sikorsky S-76C++ offer?
The Sikorsky S-76C++ helicopter features improved Arriel 2S2 engines, a digital engine control unit (DECU), an Engine Inlet Barrier Filter, and other minor improvements that the earlier models in the series didn’t have.
What came before and after the Sikorsky S-76C++?
The S-76C series has been in production since the late 1970s, with new models regularly introduced, providing improvements over the previous models. The line began with the S-76A, before progressing to the S-76B. The Sikorsky S-76C and S-76C+ preceded the S-76C++ (older S-76C+ aircraft can be upgraded to the S-76C++ standard).
The most modern aircraft in the line, and the current production aircraft, is the Sikorsky S-76D helicopter, which features a wide range of enhancements, including new Pratt & Whitney PW210S engines.
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