Sikorsky has been awarded FAA certification for its S-76C++ variant. Two airframes have already been delivered, the first to PHI (formerly Petroleum Helicopters) and a second to an unidentified private owner. More than 60 S-76C++ helicopters are currently on order.

First announced at last year’s Heli-Expo as a series of engine, interior and avionics upgrades, the new S-76C++ will make way for a set of additional product improvements that will lead to the launch of the S-76D model in 2008.