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Leonardo Aw189 vs Md Helicopters (mcdonnell Douglas) 902 Explorer vs Sikorsky S 92

The Leonardo AW189 and MD Helicopters 902 Explorer sit in different weight classes, while the Sikorsky S‑92 is the largest of the three. The AW189 is a modern super‑medium twin used for offshore transport, SAR, and utility work; it typically carries around 16–19 passengers in high‑density seating (or fewer in executive/EMS layouts) and offers a practical range roughly in the 450–500 nautical mile class depending on configuration and reserves. The MD 902 Explorer is a light twin designed for EMS, law enforcement, and corporate missions; it generally accommodates about 7–8 passengers (often fewer when fitted for medical equipment) and has a shorter range, commonly around 300 nautical miles. The Sikorsky S‑92 is a heavy/large twin optimized for offshore and SAR; it can typically seat about 19 passengers in standard offshore configuration (more in high‑density layouts) and usually delivers the longest range of the three, often around 500+ nautical miles depending on fuel and mission fit. Actual figures vary by avionics, cabin layout, fuel options, and regulatory reserves.

SpecAGUSTA / LEONARDO AW189Sikorsky S-92
Summary
Cockpit22
DOC / nm$ 15.57$ 19.79
Min Crew12
Total Seats2121
Flight RulesIFRIFR
ManufacturerLeonardoSikorsky
Aircraft NameAW189S-92
CertificationFAA / EASAFAA / EASA
Max Range (nm)651439
DOC / nm / Seat$ 0.74$ 0.94
Max Cabin Seats1919
OEM VerificationUn-VerifiedUn-Verified
Standard Cabin Seats1919
Direct Operating Cost$ 2,413$ 3,068
Flight Deck (Base Spec)EFISEFIS
Max Cruise Speed (ktas)155155
Base Aircraft Price (USD)$2,413,000 $30,650,000
Useful Load (lbs)7417
Cabin
Cockpit22
Min Crew12
Total Seats2121
Max Cabin Seats1919
Standard Cabin Seats1919
Engine
FADECYesYes
ModelCT7-2E1CT7-8A
Fuel TypeJetFuelJetFuel
TBO (hrs)40004000
Horsepower19832520
No. of Engines21
Fuel Capacity (gal)760
Dimensions
Length (ft)57.8
Overall Height (ft)16.617.8
Rotor Diameter (ft)48
Cabin Volume (cu. ft)395775
Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft)85140