Sikorsky is preparing to build its first production batch of S-92A+ helicopters, the latest variant of its commercial heavy-lift aircraft. The aircraft will be manufactured and assembled in Stratford and Owego, New York, for a head-of-state transport customer and anticipated demand from additional heads-of-state and offshore energy operators.

“The S-92A+ helicopter is another example of how we are modernising the fleet and transforming for the future, and we are building in surge capacity to meet expected demand,” says Rich Benton, vice president and general manager at Sikorsky. “The S-92 remains the aircraft of choice for head-of-state, offshore energy and search-and-rescue operators who want the highest available flight-time helicopter to perform long-range missions in any weather condition.”

A fourteenth country has ordered two S-92A+ helicopters for head-of-state transport. Sikorsky will assemble those aircraft alongside three additional production units.

The manufacturer says its production system can support up to 12 S-92A+ helicopters a year to serve demand across head-of-state transport, offshore energy missions, personnel or cargo transport, firefighting and military operations.

Dynamic components including the main gearbox, blades and drivetrains will be produced at Sikorsky’s Stratford headquarters while final assembly continues in Owego. The site previously delivered 23 US presidential helicopters based on the S-92A platform. Sikorsky also delivered two S-92A helicopters to head-of-state customers in Asia and the Middle East in 2025.

All future production aircraft will be standardised around the S-92A+ configuration. The upgrade introduces the Phase IV main gearbox alongside more powerful GE CT7-8A6 engines. The Phase IV gearbox is designed for a minimum lifecycle of more than 6,000 flight hours and incorporates auxiliary lubrication that allows a helicopter to complete a flight safely if primary oil pressure is lost.

Higher shaft horsepower from the upgraded engines maintains performance in hotter temperatures and high-altitude environments. Combined with structural strengthening, the additional power increases maximum gross weight to 27,700 pounds, enabling roughly 1,200 pounds of additional payload or fuel and improved external lift capability.

S-92A+ capability is also available as a retrofit kit for existing S-92A helicopters, with optional engine upgrades.