Sad days for fans of Sikorsky
Most of the pilots in the North Sea would probably fall into the category of giving the S92 a thumbs up, based on the track record of the venerable old lady, the S61N. The passengers loved the cabin, and the combination of sound levels and vibration levels being fairly decent it was always a favorite of many pilots in Norway.
It did have drawbacks related to insufficent engine performance in low winds and high temperatures, and a high centre of gravity leading to all pilots expecting any distching to involve upside down under water evacution.....
Unfortunately, the S92 have not proven to be a reliable and safe aircraft yet.
Noise levels in the cockpit, high vibration levels, cracks in the airframe and parts falling off, oil lubrication system failing, loose pitch links have given reason for serious consern. Our customers , our passengers, the pilots and technicians have all had to rethink our intial enthusiasm about the S92.
To many of us this has lead to increased focus on Eurocopter products. Many of us would be inclined to recommend the EC225 to the customer and the passenger organisations if asked. Have no doubt, they do ask for our advice.
If it turns out that factory pilots from Sirkorsky carry out commercial flights for PHI during this time of crisis, this is very serious indeed. it would potentially make it difficult to communicate with the factory on issues relating to work environment and safety.
Would factory pilots from Eurocopter ever sink this low? I doubt it.
If indeed pilots from the Sikorsky plant is performing commercial operations in a company which is involved in legal industrial action, then this would be a time for them to take it easy, relax and find more productive ways of spending their days. How about figuring out how to make the S92 into a smooth aircraft like the S61N? That would keep you busy for quite some time.
Last edited by chc&proud; 2nd Oct 2006 at 18:06.
Reason: poor spelling