Sikorsky S-92 Helo Completes Maiden Flight Using Biofuel

Sikorsky’s S-92 medium-lift helicopter has completed its first flight using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), often referred to as Biofuel.

The Lockheed Martin company said it has approved the use of biofuel for the S-92 helicopter as an alternative to petroleum-based fuels and the aircraft completed its first flight. This approval occurs as companies across the aviation industry are taking steps to meet environmental challenges, including transitioning to sustainable aviation fuels derived from renewable non-fossil fuel sources and utilized by aircraft certified for Jet A/A-1 fuels.

CHC Helikopter Service of Norway, was the first to fly the S-92 helicopter using Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene (HEFA-SPK) which is one of seven types of approved SAFs available today. SAFs are capable of reducing lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80% when compared to petroleum-based jet fuels. HEFA-SPK is produced from waste and residual feedstock such as used cooking oil.

GE Aviation, which manufactures the CT7-8A engines that power the S-92 helicopter, supports Sikorsky’s ambitions to reduce carbon emissions through the use of SAF. GE is heavily involved in the qualifying and testing of approved SAF blends.

Norwegian offshore helicopters will be the first to fly commercial flights on biofuel on the Sikorsky S-92 helicopter. The use of biofuel across the S-92 global fleet is an additional benefit to the offshore oil and gas mission.