Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. announced today the delivery of two S-76C++â„¢ helicopters to Heli-Union for use in offshore oil missions. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).

The contract for these aircraft was signed in November 2010. With this delivery,
Heli-Union now has eight S-76C++ helicopters operating internationally.

“We are proud that Heli-Union continues to grow its fleet with Sikorsky products to support its international operations,” said Joseph Gigantelli, Regional Sales Executive for Europe, Middle East, Turkey and Africa. “We look forward to working with Heli-Union on future opportunities for the Sikorsky S-76^® and S-92^® platforms.”

Heli-Union, based in Paris, France, conducts helicopter operations for offshore oil transport. It has successfully integrated Sikorsky helicopters into its fleet for more than 30 years.

“Our experience with the S-76C++ helicopter has been a sound one,” said Loïc Binard, Deputy Managing Director for Heli-Union. “These additional aircraft are equipped with the latest navigation systems and offer greater transport capacity, comfort and increased safety. They provide a fine enhancement of our fleet.”

The S-76C++ helicopter first entered service in 2005 and features powerful Turbomeca Arriel 2S2 engines with inlet barrier filters to protect the engines against erosion and environmental contaminants, a Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS), and a quiet main gearbox utilizing Quiet Zoneâ„¢ technology that significantly reduces interior noise levels without weight, maintenance or Time Between Overhaul penalties.

Since its introduction, more than 200 S-76C++ aircraft have been delivered to customers worldwide. The S-76 helicopter family will continue with the deliveries of the new S-76Dâ„¢ helicopter beginning in 2012.

Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., USA, is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacture, 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 industries.