DUXFORD, England, 28 Sept. 2005. Sikorsky Aircraft is pleased to announce its selection of Thales to jointly develop a new cockpit for the S-76D helicopter planned for delivery at the end of 2008.
This cockpit represents the most technologically advanced solution currently available and is specifically designed for helicopter operations. The intuitive design features large-format displays that have been consolidated in an efficiently designed console for improved visibility and situational awareness.
A full motion Level-D simulator will be available for pilot training at first aircraft delivery. Sikorsky Aircraft will provide after-sale support for the cockpit using its existing network and leveraging Thales' global footprint.
The launch of the S-76D was announced in February, and encompasses a series of engine, air vehicle, interior and avionics upgrades that will significantly enhance the performance, safety and reliability of the S-76 line. The S-76D is poised to provide best-value for customers combining safety, performance and reliability in an economical package.
The S-76D product upgrades will include: all-composite rotor blades, a new quiet tail rotor, a rotorcraft icing protection system (RIPS) that will provide the ability to fly into known icing conditions, a new Thales cockpit with an integrated avionics system designed to the latest FAA/EASA requirements, and new Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210 engines.
"These product improvements will ensure a bright future for the S-76, and we are glad that Thales will be a part of the new and exciting launch of the S-76D. Through this partnership the S-76D will continue to fly anywhere and perform any mission at anytime while opening new markets," said Mick Maurer, Sikorsky's vice president for commercial programs.
The S-76 fleet has accumulated more than 4 million flight hours, an achievement made possible by the over 220 operators currently flying close to 600 aircraft in 60 countries around the world. Sikorsky is scheduled to deliver the milestone 600th aircraft in the series later this year.
Thales is a leading global electronics company that serves the aerospace, defense, and security and services markets worldwide.
Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in helicopter design, manufacturing and service. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp., of Hartford, Conn., which provides a broad range of high technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries. For more information, see www.sikorsky.com.
