AW109 GrandNew vs S-76D
The AW109 GrandNew leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
The Leonardo Helicopters AW109 GrandNew (introduced 2012) and the Sikorsky S-76D (introduced 2012) are two aircraft buyers regularly weigh against each other. 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.
AW109 GrandNew vs S-76D: the key differences
- The AW109 GrandNew delivers 36% more range (AW109 GrandNew: 561 nm; S-76D: 411 nm).
- The S-76D delivers 3% more cruise speed (AW109 GrandNew: 151 kt; S-76D: 155 kt).
- The S-76D delivers 63% more passenger capacity (AW109 GrandNew: 8 seats; S-76D: 13 seats).
- The S-76D is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (11,700 lbs versus 6,283 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 AW109 GrandNew 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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AW109 GrandNew vs S-76D: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the AW109 GrandNew or the S-76D?
The AW109 GrandNew has the longer published range — 561 nm versus 411 nm for the S-76D.
Does the AW109 GrandNew or S-76D seat more passengers?
The S-76D carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 13 seats, compared with 8 on the AW109 GrandNew.
Which is faster, the AW109 GrandNew or the S-76D?
The S-76D cruises faster, at 155 kt versus 151 kt for the AW109 GrandNew.
Is the AW109 GrandNew or the S-76D the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the S-76D is the larger aircraft — 11,700 lbs versus 6,283 lbs for the AW109 GrandNew.
Should I buy the AW109 GrandNew or the S-76D?
Choose the AW109 GrandNew 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 AW109 GrandNew 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.