Sikorsky Aircraft has introduced new functionality on the S-92 helicopter to provide offshore oil operators with an automated approach that reduces cockpit workload and allows safer operations under challenging weather and operating conditions.

The new platform-finding system provides a fully coupled and automated approach capability with a higher safety margin than currently is available with any other offshore approach procedure, said Sikorsky officials.

"Depending on the weather, landing a helicopter on an oil platform can be challenging," said Ron Doeppner, project pilot on the S-92 helicopter program. "With the platform- finding system, the pilot programs the approach into the autopilot and the aircraft flies the approach. This allows the pilots to spend less time concentrating inside the cockpit and more time looking outside for visual cues. This feature is especially valuable in night and low visibility conditions, adding an extra element of operational safety."

The system will allow the helicopter to land and take off in more weather conditions, maximizing flight availability and revenue potential.

"Sikorsky developed this feature with the encouragement of key S-92 helicopter customers and regulatory agencies looking to leverage precision navigation capabilities found in WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System) and other national infrastructure investments," said Tom Rychlik, program manager for the S-92 project. "It fulfills the promise of precision approach to offshore oil platforms utilizing the latest navigation technology and helicopter flight control systems engineering."

With the current offshore approach procedure, at least 14 pilot actions are required to initiate an approach to an oil platform. The new software reduces that number to seven, all of which are conducted prior to departure or during cruise.

The system will be retrofitted to all existing S-92 helicopters in operation and can be ordered as an option on future deliveries.

"At PHI, we have the capacity to fly well over 1,000 passengers per day in our S-92 helicopter fleet," said Pat Attaway, PHI Operations Manager. "Obviously, we want the best systems possible to fly our passengers. We expect the automated approach system in development by Sikorsky to meet that standard."

Sikorsky is currently flight testing the system at its Development Flight Center in West Palm Beach, FL, and plans to have FAA certification by the end of 2009.

About 100 S-92 helicopters have been produced to date, and the worldwide operating fleet has accumulated more than 169,500 flight hours. The aircraft perform a variety of missions including search and rescue and VIP transport.

Increased maximum gross weight capability and advancements in automation for offshore navigation are among the enhancements Sikorsky has planned in the near future for its S- 92.

Among the key improvements being planned for the S-92 helicopter are:

• Increased maximum gross weight from 26,500 pounds to above 27,000 pounds
• Improvements to the durability of the main gear box
• Limited icing certification
• A fully coupled and automated approach capability that will allow pilots to approach offshore platforms with greater safety and lower minimums.