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Sikorsky Ramps Up Production of S-92A+
Sikorsky is preparing to build the first production batch of S-92A helicopters, the latest variant of its flagship commercial heavy-lifter. A+ model aircraft will be manufactured and assembled in Stratford and Owego, New York, for a new head-of-state transport customer, and anticipated orders from Head of State and offshore-energy customers, marking an exciting development for current and future operators.
“The S-92A+ helicopter is another example of how we are modernizing the fleet and transforming for the future, and we are building in surge capacity to meet expected demand,” said Rich Benton, Sikorsky vice president and general manager, in a company news release. “The S-92 remains the aircraft of choice for Head of State, offshore energy and search and rescue operators who want the highest available flight-time helicopter to perform long-range missions in any weather condition.”
A 14th country recently ordered two aircraft for head-of-state transport. Sikorsky will assemble these two aircraft plus three additional S-92A+ aircraft. Sikorsky has capacity to produce up to 12 S-92A+ aircraft annually to meet rising global demand for Head of State, personnel or cargo transport, offshore energy, firefighting and military operations.
Skilled artisans at Sikorsky’s headquarters in Stratford will produce S-92 dynamic components, including the main gearbox, blades and drivetrains. In Owego, the workforce will continue its proven record of assembly, having delivered 23 new US presidential helicopters based on the S-92A platform.
In 2025, Sikorsky delivered two S-92A aircraft to head-of-state customers in Asia and the Middle East.
Designed for the Next Generation
The S-92 family, now upgraded to the S-92A+, continues to set industry benchmarks for safety, performance and versatility.
Sikorsky is standardizing all production aircraft around the S-92A+ model. Each aircraft will feature the Phase IV main gearbox as well as upgraded engines. The Phase IV main gearbox, which is the most technologically advanced in the commercial market, is in its final 200 hours of endurance testing.
Phase IV main gearbox:
- The Phase IV gearbox will have a minimum operating lifecycle of 6,000+ flight hours, ensuring longer intervals between overhauls.
- Sikorsky has designed the Phase IV gearbox with auxiliary lubrication so the helicopter can complete a flight safely even if primary oil pressure is lost.
Additional engine power:
- Increased shaft horsepower of the GE CT7-8A6 engines maintains power through greater temperature ranges in hot and high-altitude environments.
- Increased engine power combined with airframe strengthening increases maximum gross weight to 27,700 pounds ensuring an additional 1,200 pounds of payload or fuel.
- Exterior lift (sling load) capability increases significantly.
S-92A+ capability is available as a kit for retrofit to any S-92A aircraft with the option for upgraded engines.
New technology to the S-92 fleet
Sikorsky is bringing new technology to the S-92 fleet. The S-92A+ helicopter is the latest model of the venerable platform, building upon a legacy track record of performance and proven technology with new features for improved safety, reliability and capability.
The S-92A+ helicopter features two new General Electric CT7-8A6 turboshaft engines, offering more power in higher altitudes and hotter temperatures. Gross Weight Expansion (GWE) with LifePlus gives you 1,200 lbs of extra payload.
The new model also includes the S-92 Phase IV main gearbox featuring an auxiliary lubrication system that automatically engages in the event of primary oil pressure loss. This eliminates the need for immediate landing and allows operators to safely reach their destination. Sikorsky invested $100M into developing the gearbox, underscoring the company’s commitment to enhancing the S-92 platform.
The S-92 helicopter fleet – representing more than 300 aircraft and 2.6 million flight hours – is rapidly accumulating flight hours in a variety of missions including search and rescue, oil and gas transportation and VIP transportation in 28 countries.
Photos courtesy of Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company
