H130 vs S-76D
The S-76D leads, topping 6 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the Airbus Helicopters H130 (introduced 2012) against the Sikorsky S-76D (introduced 2012) is a common decision, and the two sit closer on paper than the badges suggest. Both are helicopters, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is cabin capacity, where the S-76D carries more passengers. The spec-by-spec breakdown below is followed by a mission-fit read and a buyer's recommendation.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
H130 vs S-76D: the key differences
- The S-76D delivers 23% more range (H130: 335 nm; S-76D: 411 nm).
- The S-76D delivers 19% more cruise speed (H130: 130 kt; S-76D: 155 kt).
- The S-76D delivers 63% more passenger capacity (H130: 8 seats; S-76D: 13 seats).
- The S-76D is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (11,700 lbs versus 5,070 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
- The two differ in powerplant layout: the H130 runs 1 engine against 2 on the S-76D — a factor in redundancy, maintenance scope and operating cost.
Which mission suits which aircraft
Both aircraft are built for short-haul and regional hops, so outright range rarely separates them — the call leans on cabin (the S-76D seats more), trip economics and what is actually available on the market. Match the airframe to how you fly most weeks, not to the headline range figure.
Which should you choose?
On published specifications the S-76D leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The H130 can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
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H130 vs S-76D: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the H130 or the S-76D?
The S-76D has the longer published range — 411 nm versus 335 nm for the H130.
Does the H130 or S-76D seat more passengers?
The S-76D carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 13 seats, compared with 8 on the H130.
Which is faster, the H130 or the S-76D?
The S-76D cruises faster, at 155 kt versus 130 kt for the H130.
Is the H130 or the S-76D the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the S-76D is the larger aircraft — 11,700 lbs versus 5,070 lbs for the H130.
Should I buy the H130 or the S-76D?
On published specifications the S-76D leads on both range and cabin capacity, so it suits operators who want maximum mission flexibility from a single airframe. The H130 can still be the smarter buy on acquisition cost, operating economics, runway performance, or current availability — the factors that rarely show up in a spec sheet. Our acquisition advisory team can model both against your actual mission profile before you commit.
Still weighing up the H130 vs S-76D?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.