Leonardo Aw189 vs Sikorsky S 92

The Leonardo AW189 and Sikorsky S-92 sit in different weight and mission categories, which drives most of their practical differences. The AW189 is generally considered a “super-medium” twin, optimized for offshore transport and SAR-style flexibility with lower operating weight and typically lower trip costs. The S-92 is a heavier, “heavy” twin designed for higher payload and more demanding offshore missions, and it is often selected where maximum capacity and cabin volume are priorities. On range, both are offshore-capable, but the S-92 commonly offers greater practical reach when configured for longer legs because of its larger fuel and payload margins, while the AW189’s range is strong for the super-medium class but usually comes in below a heavy twin in comparable mission configurations. For passenger capacity, AW189 layouts are typically in the mid-to-high teens, while the S-92 commonly seats more, often around the high teens to low twenties depending on interior and regulatory configuration. Exact figures vary by cabin fit, fuel reserves, and mission equipment.