Helipro is nearing completion of its first S-61 "Short" conversion for the offshore market, and aims to fly the helicopter for the first time in April.
The Offshore S-61 Short, as its name suggests, is a modified version of the original Sikorsky S-61N with a 1.23m fuselage plug removed from the main cabin, forward of the engines. Helipro says that the payload of the cut-down S-61 is increased by around 10%, or 450kg, while airspeed increases by 6% and fuel consumption is reduced by the same factor.
The Bellingham, Washington-based company expects the first Offshore version to enter service around mid-year following a short flight test programme.
The aircraft has flotation sponsons and a full instrument flight rules cockpit. It is also offered with a range of options developed by Helipro, including a new rear cargo door, an external rescue hoist and an underfloor baggage compartment. The new amphibious version will be the seventh S-61 converted to Short configuration by Helipro. The first six have accumulated more than 15,000 flight hours in the heli-logging market.
Helipro has been appointed as a S-61 and S-76 service centre, becoming the first support company to be designated officially in the role under Sikorsky's newly introduced Service Center concept. Helipro has supported the two helicopter types for 10 years. The company also provides support for the S-61's General Electric CT58 turboshafts.
Source: Flight International
