Sikorsky (OE3, OE4) here on Monday announced that it has begun delivering S-76 medium twin helicopters equipped for executive transport and search-and-rescue (SAR).

Among the features that executive transport operators will enjoy, the company said, is the ability to keep the rotors static, i.e. not rotating, while running an engine to power the air-conditioning. It also claims its active vibration control and Quiet Zone transmission technology provide smooth and quiet cabin conditions, allowing normal conversations.

Meanwhile, the first SAR S-76D was delivered to Mitsubishi Corporation for use by the Japan Coast Guard. Mitsubishi has contracted for a total of 11 S-76D helicopters, Sikorsky said. The manufacturer emphasized the coast guards will enjoy the new four-axis autopilot.

By the end of this year, it expects to deliver S-76D helicopters equipped for EMS. Sikorsky delivered the first S-76D aircraft to Bristow Helicopters for offshore oil worker transport in December last year.

The fleet leader is an S-76D operated by Trinidad and Tobago-based, offshore oil-and-gas operator National Helicopter Services Ltd. (NHSL), which has just reached 500 flight hours. “Our Sikorsky aircraft continue exceeding mission requirements while getting crews safely and efficiently to where they need to go,” said Joshey Mahabir, CEO and general manager. NHSL is scheduled to receive another two S-76D helicopters later this year.

Among other improvements over the previous S-76 version, the D model features more powerful and efficient Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S turboshafts and an advanced Thales TopDeck integrated avionics suite. Sikorsky is still pursuing flight into known icing conditions via an optional de-icing system for the main and tail rotor blades.