High Noise Levels
The higher noise levels is an indirect function of the number of blades. The S-92 was conceived as a growth version of the S-70/UH-60 Blackhawk. As such the 4 bladed rotor system was retained. Additional lift was required to meet to meet higher mission weights. The low cost solution to more lift was increase the rotor speed by 7% over the S-70's. The rotor diameter was also increased also contributing to higher tip speeds. An additional increase in exterior noise level may be realized during cold weather operations as the tips speeds approach Mach.