First delivered in 1977, the Sikorsky S-76 remains a great corporate helicopter. Carrying the heads of state of 10 countries, as well as over 178 other examples built for major business organizations and VIPs, this model was the first Sikorsky helicopter built for the civilian market and sharing mechanical DNA with its military brother. , UH-60 Black Hawk. Since 1998, the British Royal Family has used three burgundy versions consecutively.
The twin-turboprop S-76 provides an alternative to regional business jets and has a maximum range of 411 nautical miles (except reserve) and top speed of 178 mph. In addition, since they are partly designed to transport personnel to offshore oil platforms, they provide safe operation in a wide variety of weather conditions.
In 1974, as expected, the S-76 concept required a rethinking of how the helicopter would operate. The design included great vehicle qualities and a quiet cabin. “It was the first helicopter with limousine-like closing doors,” says Eli Flint, head of Flexjet’s vertical lift business, adding that “the aerodynamic shape appeals to people who love cars.” The company The fleet of 15 helicopters consists mainly of Sikorsky general purpose aircraft. Each has an eight-passenger cabin with leather seats, large windows and sound-absorbing technology. One of the interiors is also inspired by the Bentley Bacalar, designed by Flexjet President Ken Ritchie. “Interior design provides a great framework to work from,” says Flint. “Genesis is second to none.”
The S-76 system was upgraded six times over four decades before Sikorsky announced it would cease production in 2022, although the company maintained service infrastructure and supplies of spare parts. (Rumors are still circulating that the model may be built outside the United States.)
Flexjet’s main US competitor, Heliflight, also sees the S-76 as a flagship for its wealthy customers. HeliFlight CEO Kurt Carlson praises Sikorsky’s durability and reliability. In addition to its headquarters in the New York metropolitan area, Heliflight also has a base in South Florida serving the region as well as the Bahamas and the Caribbean. Carlson noted that Sikorsky’s fleet can now reach remote islands that normally cannot be reached by plane.
Even though the new C-76 is being phased out, Flint believes the C-76 is a viable platform for the next decade. “It’s still one of the most attractive corporate helicopters,” he says.
