Leonardo Aw189 vs Robinson Helicopters R66 vs Sikorsky S 76d
The Leonardo AW189 is a larger, medium twin‑engine helicopter typically positioned for offshore transport, search and rescue, and utility missions. It generally offers the greatest range of the three and the highest passenger capacity, commonly configured around 12–16 passengers depending on cabin layout and mission equipment. The Sikorsky S‑76D is also a twin‑engine, medium helicopter, widely used for offshore support and executive transport. Its passenger capacity is usually in the mid range—often about 8–12 passengers—while its range is generally strong but typically below the AW189 in many operational configurations, with performance influenced by payload, fuel reserves, and installed equipment. The Robinson R66 is a smaller, single‑engine light helicopter aimed at private, training, and light utility roles. It has the shortest range of the three in typical use and the lowest passenger capacity, seating about 4 passengers plus a pilot (five seats total).
| Spec | AGUSTA / LEONARDO AW189 | ROBINSON R66 | Sikorsky S-76D |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summary | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| DOC / nm | $ 15.57 | $ 3.49 | $ 11.49 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 21 | 5 | 12 |
| Flight Rules | IFR | VFR | IFR |
| Manufacturer | Leonardo | Robinson Helicopters | Sikorsky |
| Aircraft Name | AW189 | R66 | S-76D |
| Certification | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA | FAA / EASA |
| Max Range (nm) | 651 | 350 | 441 |
| DOC / nm / Seat | $ 0.74 | $ 0.70 | $ 0.96 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 19 | — | 10 |
| OEM Verification | Un-Verified | Un-Verified | Un-Verified |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 | 3 | 10 |
| Direct Operating Cost | $ 2,413 | $ 384 | $ 1,781 |
| Flight Deck (Base Spec) | EFIS | Gyro / Analog | Thales TopDeck |
| Max Cruise Speed (ktas) | 155 | 110 | 155 |
| Base Aircraft Price (USD) | $2,413,000 | $ 920,000 | $14,900,000 |
| Useful Load (lbs) | — | 1355 | — |
| Cabin | |||
| Cockpit | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Min Crew | 1 | 1 | 2 |
| Total Seats | 21 | 5 | 12 |
| Max Cabin Seats | 19 | — | 10 |
| Standard Cabin Seats | 19 | 3 | 10 |
| Engine | |||
| FADEC | Yes | No | Yes |
| Model | CT7-2E1 | RR300 | PW210S |
| Fuel Type | JetFuel | JetFuel | JetFuel |
| TBO (hrs) | 4000 | 2000 | 4000 |
| Horsepower | 1983 | 300 | 1077 |
| No. of Engines | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Fuel Capacity (gal) | — | 73.6 | 296 |
| Dimensions | |||
| Length (ft) | 57.8 | 38.3 | 52.5 |
| Overall Height (ft) | 16.6 | 11.4 | 14.5 |
| Rotor Diameter (ft) | 48 | 33 | 44 |
| Cabin Volume (cu. ft) | 395 | 50 | — |
| Baggage Volume Ext. (cu. ft) | 85 | 18 | — |