Airbus Helicopters H215 vs Sikorsky S 92
The Airbus Helicopters H215 and Sikorsky S-92 are both large, twin‑engine helicopters used for transport missions such as offshore support, utility work, and government or humanitarian roles, but they sit in slightly different segments. The H215 is generally positioned as a heavy‑class, value‑oriented derivative of the Super Puma family, often chosen where robust lift and simpler operating economics are priorities. The S-92 is typically classed as a heavy, long‑range transport helicopter and is widely associated with offshore oil and gas and other missions emphasizing cabin comfort, systems integration, and long overwater operations. In range terms, the S-92 is commonly fielded with longer typical mission range, especially in offshore configurations, while the H215’s practical range can be strong but is more dependent on payload, auxiliary tanks, and role fit. For passenger capacity, both can be configured for roughly around 19 passengers in transport layouts, with variations depending on seating standard, fuel, and mission equipment. Overall, the S-92 is usually selected for longer-range, premium transport profiles, while the H215 often appeals for heavy utility capability and cost-conscious operations.
| Spec | AIRBUS H215 | Sikorsky S-92 |
|---|---|---|
| Summary | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 19.07 | $ 19.79 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 21 | 21 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Airbus Helicopters | Sikorsky |
| Aircraft Name | H215 | S-92 |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 468 | 439 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.91 | $ 0.94 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 22 | 19 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Useful Load (lbs) | 8903 | 7417 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 | 19 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,708 | $ 3,068 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | EFIS |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 142 | 155 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $27,500,000 | $30,650,000 |
| Cabin | ||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 2 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 21 | 21 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 22 | 19 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 | 19 |
| Engine | ||
| FADEC | Yes | Yes |
| Model | Makila 1A1 | CT7-8A |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 3000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1820 | 2520 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | 540 | 760 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length (ft) | 61.4 | — |
| Overall Height (ft) | 16.2 | 17.8 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 51.2 | — |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 473.9 | 775 |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | — | 140 |