The S-76D™ helicopter program has achieved another significant milestone as Transport Canada recently certified the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S engines that will be installed in Sikorsky's new S-76D™ helicopter. Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).

The engine certification signifies that the PW210S engine has completed all required certification tests and complies with all regulatory requirements. Pratt & Whitney Canada, also a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp., has accumulated more than 8,700 hours in test cells and flight tests on the engine. A Type Certificate E-36 was issued for the PW210S engine on Oct. 14.

"We have conducted a robust test program to ensure that this engine is ready to enter service, so this is a key milestone in the development of the S-76D helicopter," said Tim Fox, S-76® helicopter Senior Program Manager. "It demonstrates that the engine's capabilities meet or exceed regulatory requirements. It propels Sikorsky another step closer to certification of this exciting new aircraft."

Fox said the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) validation, followed by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) validation, of the Canadian Type Certificate is expected in the coming months. Delivery of the first aircraft to the launch customer is slated for 2012.

"With every milestone achieved by the S-76D helicopter program, the legacy of the Sikorsky S-76® series grows," said Ed Beyer, Vice President of Sikorsky Global Helicopters. "The medium-size helicopter market is ready for the enhanced functionality, improved quiet ride, and power that the S-76D helicopter offers. Our customers are embracing the advances in technology and new efficiencies, and we are focused on delivering on all counts."

The new generation S-76D helicopter will perform an array of civil missions including executive transport, offshore oil, emergency medical services, and a multi-mission role.

Among the S-76D helicopter's features are all-composite, flaw-tolerant main rotor blades; an advanced THALES integrated avionics system and autopilot; quiet operation with active vibration control; powerful Pratt & Whitney Canada PW210S engines; and an optional Rotor Ice Protection System (RIPS) for all-weather capability.