Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. and Líder Taxi Aéreo S.A. Air Brasil today announced the signing of a contract for three S-76C++TM aircraft in a ceremony held at Heli-Expo. This contract continues the more than 30-year relationship between the companies. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).
The aircraft will operate in Brazil in support of offshore oil operations. In addition, Líder recently began operating an S-92® helicopter in Brazil, the first operator to begin flying that model in the region.
Líder operates more than 30 Sikorsky helicopters – mostly S-76 helicopters – in support of offshore oil operations in Brazil. Recently, the S-92 helicopter joined its fleet. Lider has been flying Sikorsky products, beginning with the S-58T™ helicopter, since the 1970s.
“We are delighted that Líder continues to look to Sikorsky for its offshore transportation requirements,” said Carey Bond, President, Sikorsky Global Helicopters. “Their commitment to our products is a great testament to the strong relationship of our two companies, and the solid performance of our helicopters.”
The S-76C++ helicopter, which first entered service in 2005, includes new more powerful Turbomeca Arriel 2S2 Engines, an inlet barrier filter to protect the engine against erosion and environmental contaminants, new Health and Usage Monitoring System, and a quiet main gearbox utilizing Quiet ZoneTM technology that will significantly reduce interior noise levels without any weight, maintenance or Time Between Overhaul penalties. The S-76C++ helicopter engines provide approximately 350 pounds of additional payload capacity on hot days at high altitude compared to an S-76C+ helicopter.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacturing, and service. United Technologies Corp., based in Hartford, Conn., USA, provides a broad range of high-technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems.