The Sikorsky S-92 19 seat helicopter made its debut at Heli-Expo 1992 as a full-scale mockup to "test the market" for an S-61 replacement.

The S-92's basic design reflects a combination of requirements from the civil and military market segments.

It has a Category A vertical-take-off performance - the ability to continue with a takeoff after the loss of an engine - and crashworthy design of the fuel system, landing gear and seats.

Developed from the Sikorsky S-70 helicopter its tail rotor assembly is similar.

Designing the aircraft to meet the safety requirements of North Sea operators led to the installation of four large cabin exits, plus popout windows.

The S-92s 1.83m (6ft) high cabin and Honeywell auxiliary power unit make the helicopter ideal for head of state/VIP transport.

S-92 has up to an initial maximum gross weight of 11,570kg (25,500lbs) is based on a 19-seat, 740km payload range performance. Military qualification of the 22-seat utility version has a growth weight of 12,850kg.

Flight published the design changes in 2000.