Leonardo Aw609 Tiltrotor vs Sikorsky S 92

The Leonardo AW609 is a civil tiltrotor, combining helicopter-like vertical takeoff and landing with airplane-like cruise, while the Sikorsky S-92 is a conventional medium-lift helicopter optimized for offshore transport, search and rescue, and utility missions. In range, the AW609 is generally positioned to fly farther and faster than typical helicopters in its class because it transitions to wing-borne flight in cruise, whereas the S-92’s range is strong for a helicopter but is more constrained by rotorcraft cruise efficiency and lower cruise speeds. In passenger capacity, the S-92 is the larger cabin aircraft: it commonly seats around 19 passengers in typical transport layouts (and can be configured for more in high-density arrangements), while the AW609 is aimed at smaller groups, typically around 6 to 9 passengers depending on configuration. Overall, the AW609 suits point-to-point travel needing speed and runway independence, while the S-92 suits higher-capacity lift with established helicopter operations, especially in offshore and SAR roles.