The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has completed a second phase of validations for new capabilities and expanded performance of the Sikorsky S-76D™ helicopter. Sikorsky, A Lockheed Martin Company (NYSE: LMT), made the announcement at the Farnborough International Air Show and expects to make its first delivery to a European VIP customer this year.

The newly validated capabilities focus on cabin comfort and cockpit architecture.  The Silencer® wall panel system is approved for the eight-passenger deluxe VIP/executive interior for improved cabin acoustics, along with C4 air conditioning to provide advanced climate control.

The TopDeck™ avionics suite is also approved for the field loadable V400 software upgrade.  V400 includes the expanded features of Wide Area Augmentation System Localizer Performance with Vertical guidance (WAAS-LPV) approaches, Single Pilot Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), and flight following system.  It also includes Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) Out, the next generation of air traffic control safety equipment providing aircraft and air traffic controllers with real-time, satellite-based position and heading data.

“This expanded validation gives commercial operators a wide range of desirable features in the S-76D VIP aircraft and allows operations in various conditions,” said Sikorsky Vice President for Strategy & Business Development Nathalie Previte. “These enriched capabilities enhance situational awareness for pilots and reduce cockpit workload while also allowing customers to enjoy the heightened comfort of the aircraft.”

Expanded performance profiles now include Category A ground-level helipad procedures, Category B takeoff and landing procedures and 15,000 foot (4,572 m) envelope expansion.  Outside air temperature (OAT) limits have also been increased to ISA+ 34C (120.2 F) and cold weather to -35C (-31F).

HeliHub.com editor note – there are currently no S-76D helicopters in Europe – the delivery mentioned above will be the first.