Sikorsky's New S-76D Helicopter is Airborne

by Jared Paul Stern (RSS feed)
Feb 19th 2009 at 9:01AM

In one of the most highly-anticipated events in the commercial aviation industry, Sikorsky's stunning new multimillion-dollar S-76D helicopter (above) just successfully completed its first test flight, paving the way for production and delivery by next year. The prototype maneuvered through taxi, hover, hover turns, and forward flight to 40 knots. The sleek helicopter features all-composite, flaw-tolerant main rotor blades; an advanced Thales avionics system and autopilot; dual speed rotor with active vibration control; powerful Pratt & Whitney 210S engines; and an optional ice protection system for all-weather flying. Inside the S-76D, the atmosphere is comparable to a luxurious private jet with satellite phones, entertainment systems, flight progress displays and refreshment cabinets featuring custom woodwork. There are dozens of customization options as well.

Tags: helicopter, jet, Sikorsky