AW169 vs S-76D
The AW169 leads, topping 3 of 7 compared metrics.
The Leonardo Helicopters AW169 (introduced 2015) 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. undefined
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AW169 vs S-76D: the key differences
- The AW169 delivers 5% more range (AW169: 430 nm; S-76D: 411 nm).
- The S-76D delivers 7% more cruise speed (AW169: 145 kt; S-76D: 155 kt).
- The S-76D delivers 30% more passenger capacity (AW169: 10 seats; S-76D: 13 seats).
- The AW169 is the newer design (introduced 2015 versus 2012 for the S-76D), a gap of 3 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The S-76D is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (11,700 lbs versus 10,630 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 AW169 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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AW169 vs S-76D: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the AW169 or the S-76D?
The AW169 has the longer published range — 430 nm versus 411 nm for the S-76D.
Does the AW169 or S-76D seat more passengers?
The S-76D carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 13 seats, compared with 10 on the AW169.
Which is faster, the AW169 or the S-76D?
The S-76D cruises faster, at 155 kt versus 145 kt for the AW169.
Which is newer, the AW169 or the S-76D?
The AW169 is the newer design, introduced in 2015 versus 2012 for the S-76D.
Is the AW169 or the S-76D the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the S-76D is the larger aircraft — 11,700 lbs versus 10,630 lbs for the AW169.
Should I buy the AW169 or the S-76D?
Choose the AW169 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 AW169 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.