H160 vs S-76D
The S-76D leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
Put the Airbus Helicopters H160 (introduced 2021) beside the Sikorsky S-76D (introduced 2012) and the trade-offs sharpen fast. Both are helicopters, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. On paper they are closely matched, so the decision usually turns on cabin, economics and availability. 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.
H160 vs S-76D: the key differences
- The H160 delivers 5% more range (H160: 430 nm; S-76D: 411 nm).
- The S-76D delivers 3% more cruise speed (H160: 150 kt; S-76D: 155 kt).
- The S-76D delivers 8% more passenger capacity (H160: 12 seats; S-76D: 13 seats).
- The H160 is the newer design (introduced 2021 versus 2012 for the S-76D), a gap of 9 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The H160 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (13,228 lbs versus 11,700 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
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?
Choose the H160 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the S-76D when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the S-76D holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
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H160 vs S-76D: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the H160 or the S-76D?
The H160 has the longer published range — 430 nm versus 411 nm for the S-76D.
Does the H160 or S-76D seat more passengers?
The S-76D carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 13 seats, compared with 12 on the H160.
Which is faster, the H160 or the S-76D?
The S-76D cruises faster, at 155 kt versus 150 kt for the H160.
Which is newer, the H160 or the S-76D?
The H160 is the newer design, introduced in 2021 versus 2012 for the S-76D.
Is the H160 or the S-76D the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the H160 is the larger aircraft — 13,228 lbs versus 11,700 lbs for the S-76D.
Should I buy the H160 or the S-76D?
Choose the H160 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the S-76D when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the S-76D holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the H160 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.