AW139 vs S-92
The AW139 leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
The Leonardo Helicopters AW139 (introduced 2003) and the Sikorsky S-92 (introduced 2004) 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-92 carries more passengers. undefined
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AW139 vs S-92: the key differences
- The AW139 delivers 6% more range (AW139: 573 nm; S-92: 539 nm).
- The AW139 delivers 11% more cruise speed (AW139: 167 kt; S-92: 151 kt).
- The S-92 delivers 27% more passenger capacity (AW139: 15 seats; S-92: 19 seats).
- The S-92 is the newer design (introduced 2004 versus 2003 for the AW139), a gap of 1 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The S-92 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (26,500 lbs versus 14,991 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-92 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 AW139 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the S-92 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the AW139 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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AW139 vs S-92: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the AW139 or the S-92?
The AW139 has the longer published range — 573 nm versus 539 nm for the S-92.
Does the AW139 or S-92 seat more passengers?
The S-92 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 19 seats, compared with 15 on the AW139.
Which is faster, the AW139 or the S-92?
The AW139 cruises faster, at 167 kt versus 151 kt for the S-92.
Which is newer, the AW139 or the S-92?
The S-92 is the newer design, introduced in 2004 versus 2003 for the AW139.
Is the AW139 or the S-92 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the S-92 is the larger aircraft — 26,500 lbs versus 14,991 lbs for the AW139.
Should I buy the AW139 or the S-92?
Choose the AW139 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the S-92 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the AW139 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 AW139 vs S-92?
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.