EASA approves certification for S-76D helicopter

The European Aviation Safety Administration (EASA) has approved the VIP Type Certificate for the S-76D helicopter, allowing for operation of the aircraft in Europe. The announcement was made at the 2015 Helicopter Association International Heli-Expo show. EASA signed the certificate on Feb. 25th, capping an intensive flight test program to introduce the S-76D helicopter, Sikorsky’s newest commercial product. The Federal Aviation Administration approved the Type Certificate for the baseline S-76D aircraft in October 2012. In the ensuing year, the Sikorsky Flight Test program expanded certifications. Bristow Group Inc. took delivery of the first S-76D helicopter in December 2013.