Sikorsky introduced the eagerly awaited S-92® Phase IV main gearbox, a groundbreaking advancement that establishes a new standard for reliability, performance, and safety in the commercial helicopter sector.
The S-92 Phase IV main gearbox incorporates an auxiliary lubrication system that activates automatically if there is a loss of primary oil pressure. This innovation removes the necessity for an immediate landing, enabling operators to safely proceed to their destination. This groundbreaking solution has undergone over 800 hours of rigorous testing and is expected to receive Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification in 2025. Four gearboxes have been manufactured at the company's Stratford headquarters, and customers are already eager to be among the first adopters.
“The Phase IV main gearbox builds upon its predecessor’s reputation as one of the best and most reliable gearboxes in the industry, and is yet another example of Sikorsky's continued investment in the S-92 platform,” said Leon Silva, vice president of Global Commercial and Military Systems at Sikorsky. "We have spent more than a decade designing, testing and optimizing the Phase IV main gearbox for exceptional performance, and we are thrilled to see it become a new industry standard."
Sikorsky has allocated over $100 million towards the development of the gearbox, facilitating customers in meeting future mission demands and highlighting the company's dedication to advancing the S-92 platform. The S-92 helicopter serves as the backbone of the offshore energy sector and is a reliable option for search and rescue operations, head of state transportation, and other essential missions globally.
The introduction of the Phase IV main gearbox marks a significant achievement in Sikorsky's continuous endeavour to improve the capability and safety of the S-92 fleet. With an average lifetime availability exceeding 90%, numerous S-92 aircraft serving the rigorous offshore energy sector average over 1500 flight hours annually. As the offshore energy industry progresses, the S-92 Phase IV main gearbox is strategically designed to meet the growing demands of deepwater operations, offering a secure and dependable method for transporting personnel, equipment, and supplies to remote areas.
Sikorsky has recently announced multiple enhancements to the S-92 helicopter, such as extended intervals for scheduled inspections and a one-time life extension for certain main gearbox housings. These improvements will reduce downtime caused by inspections by over a year, enabling operators to maintain their aircraft in service and generate revenue for a longer period. The earned life credit amounts to up to 1200 hours or 3600 ground-air-ground cycles, equating to an additional 12 to 18 months for an average S-92 offshore oil operator and over 24 months for other operators.
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