The Sikorsky S-92 is not just a helicopter—it’s a flying fortress of innovation, safety, and versatility. Designed for the toughest missions across land and sea, this twin-engine, medium-lift rotorcraft has become a global workhorse in industries ranging from offshore oil transport to presidential air travel. Whether you’re flying to a remote oil rig in the North Sea or carrying out a life-saving rescue during a storm, the S-92 is built to deliver—every time.
| Features | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Sikorsky Aircraft (a Lockheed Martin company) |
| First Flight | December 23, 1998 |
| Introduction Year | 2004 |
| Engines | 2 × General Electric CT7-8A turboshaft engines |
| Power Output | 2,520 shp (1,880 kW) per engine |
| Cruise Speed | 151 knots (280 km/h or 174 mph) |
| Maximum Cruise Speed | 165 knots (306 km/h or 190 mph) |
| Maximum Range | 539 nautical miles (998 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 15,000 ft (4,572 m) |
| Avionics | Rockwell Collins avionics suite + auto flight control |
| Redundancy Systems | Dual hydraulic, dual electrical, twin-engine |
| Noise Rating | ICAO Stage 3 compliant (quiet operations) |
| Flight Controls | Dual digital automatic flight control system (DAFCS) |
| Safety Systems | HUMS, crashworthy seating, fuel tanks, flotation gear |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 19 passengers |
| Crew | 2 (Pilot + Co-Pilot) |
| Cabin Volume | 6.1 m³ (215 ft³) |
| Cabin Height | 4.25 ft (1.3 m) |
| Cabin Width | 6.5 ft (1.98 m) |
| Length (Overall) | 56 ft 4 in (17.17 m) |
| Rotor Diameter | 56 ft 4 in (17.17 m) |
| Height | 15 ft 6 in (4.72 m) |
| Empty Weight | 15,200 lb (6,895 kg) |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight | 27,700 lb (12,565 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 4,540 lb (2,060 kg) |
A Legacy of Engineering Excellence
Sikorsky, a name long synonymous with rotorcraft innovation, introduced the S-92 in the early 2000s as a successor to the battle-tested S-70 Black Hawk. But make no mistake—the S-92 is its own beast. Built with civilian and commercial markets in mind, it combines military-grade toughness with commercial flexibility. The result? A helicopter trusted by energy companies, coast guards, government agencies, and armed forces across the globe.
The aircraft was designed to meet and exceed the highest safety standards in the industry, including FAA and EASA Part 29 certifications. Its structure is built around a flaw-tolerant, damage-resistant frame—engineered not just to fly, but to fly safely in the world’s harshest environments.
Built for the Mission: Performance Specs That Impress
When it comes to performance, the Sikorsky S-92 delivers with brute power and technical finesse. It’s equipped with two General Electric CT7-8A turboshaft engines, giving it the muscle to cruise at 151 knots (280 km/h) and travel up to 539 nautical miles (998 kilometers) on a single trip. With a service ceiling of 15,000 feet and a maximum takeoff weight of 27,700 pounds, it handles long distances, heavy loads, and challenging altitudes with ease.
Its composite four-blade main rotor reduces noise and vibration, enhancing passenger comfort while increasing operational lifespan. The S-92 also features advanced fly-by-wire avionics, and a Health and Usage Monitoring System (HUMS) that detects mechanical wear before it becomes an issue—minimizing downtime and maximizing mission readiness.
Cabin Comfort Meets Customization
One of the biggest draws of the S-92 is its incredibly versatile cabin. Spacious and modular, the interior can be tailored for a variety of missions. In its standard offshore transport setup, it seats up to 19 passengers in durable, crashworthy seating—perfect for ferrying oil and gas workers to platforms far offshore. The cabin is roomy enough for people to move around comfortably, yet compact enough to optimize aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
In search and rescue (SAR) configurations, the helicopter transforms into a flying emergency room. It includes rescue hoists, infrared cameras, stretchers, and emergency medical equipment, making it a trusted partner for coast guards and first responders.
For VIP and executive travel, the S-92 becomes a luxury sky suite. Think plush leather seating, climate control, soundproof interiors, and premium finishes. The U.S. government even selected a customized S-92—known as the VH-92A—to serve as the next Marine One, transporting the President of the United States.
Global Reach: Who Uses the S-92?
The Sikorsky S-92 is a global star, operating in over 20 countries and serving a wide range of industries. Offshore transport companies like CHC Helicopter and Bristow Group use the S-92 to transport personnel to oil and gas platforms in the North Sea, West Africa, and the Gulf of Mexico. It’s trusted in these remote, storm-prone areas because of its reliability and resilience.
Search and rescue units in Canada, Ireland, and Norway depend on the S-92 to respond to emergencies in the roughest weather. In the military world, the UAE, South Korea, and Turkey use it for troop deployment, logistics, and command-and-control missions.
And of course, when heads of state need safe, reliable air travel, the S-92 is at the top of the list. Its executive variant has become a flying boardroom for top government officials and business leaders alike.
Safety at the Core: More Than Just a Helicopter
Safety isn’t just a feature on the S-92—it’s the foundation. It was the first helicopter to achieve FAA and CAA certification for a flaw-tolerant design, meaning its systems are built to continue working even in the event of a mechanical failure. The aircraft includes redundant hydraulic and electrical systems, energy-absorbing landing gear and seats, and crashworthy fuel tanks.
Additional systems like terrain awareness, autopilot, and advanced navigation tools ensure the crew can operate safely—even in near-zero visibility or challenging landscapes. This is one of the many reasons why the S-92 is so widely respected among pilots and operators.
Price Tag: What Does an S-92 Cost?
Quality and performance come at a price, and the Sikorsky S-92 is no exception. A brand-new S-92 helicopter typically costs between $27 million and $30 million USD, depending on the configuration and optional equipment. VIP models or SAR variants can push the price higher due to specialized features.
For buyers looking for a pre-owned model, the used S-92 market offers aircraft ranging from $10 million to $18 million USD, depending on the year, total flight hours, and included modifications. While it’s a significant investment, many operators consider it money well spent given the helicopter’s longevity, reliability, and low operating costs relative to its capabilities.
The Future of the S-92: Evolving with Technology
Even two decades after its debut, the S-92 is still evolving. Sikorsky continues to upgrade the platform with modern avionics, digital cockpit enhancements, and even potential hybrid-electric propulsion systems for a more sustainable future. As the aviation industry pushes toward greener, smarter air travel, the S-92 is well-positioned to stay relevant and competitive.
The helicopter’s adaptability ensures it will remain a staple for missions where time, distance, and conditions are non-negotiable. It’s not just built for today—it’s built for tomorrow.
Final Thoughts: A Helicopter That Earns Its Wings
From the icy waters of the Arctic to the skyscrapers of Manhattan, the Sikorsky S-92 has proven itself as a helicopter that delivers where others hesitate. It blends performance, luxury, safety, and versatility into a single airframe that’s trusted by governments, corporations, and emergency responders around the world. Whether you’re in it for the specs, the safety, or the prestige—this bird earns its wings every time it takes off.
If you’re looking for a helicopter that can do it all—and do it exceptionally well—the Sikorsky S-92 should be at the top of your list.