IATA S76ICAO S76

Sikorsky S-76

Sikorsky

TravelerPulse profile

Versatile medium twin-engine helicopter for commercial and utility roles.

First flight

1977

Category

Utility helicopter

Seating

12–13 passengers

Range

760 km

Engines

Two turboshaft engines (variant-dependent: Allison 250, Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6B, or Turbomeca Arriel)

Status

In production

The Sikorsky S-76 is a medium-class twin-engine helicopter developed by Sikorsky Aircraft, first introduced in the late 1970s. Designed primarily for commercial transport, offshore oil support, and executive travel, it quickly became one of the most successful helicopters in its class worldwide. The S-76 has undergone several major variants, including the S-76A, B, C, C+, C++, and the current S-76D, each introducing improved engines, avionics, and performance. Its reliability and smooth ride made it a preferred choice for VIP transport and air ambulance operations. Beyond commercial use, the S-76 has served in search and rescue, medevac, and parapublic roles for government and military customers globally. The type remains in production and active service decades after its introduction.

Notable operators

Bristow Group, PHI Inc., Era Aviation, and various air ambulance and VIP charter operators worldwide have been major users of the S-76.

Notable facts

›The S-76 was Sikorsky's first purpose-built commercial helicopter.
›It has been used as a VIP transport, including by members of the British Royal Family.
›The S-76D variant introduced Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S engines and a Thales TopDeck glass cockpit.
›Over 850 S-76 helicopters have been delivered since production began.
›The type is widely used in offshore oil and gas support, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and North Sea.