No helicopters are perfect
Gentlemen
Here are but a few opinionated views on relevant issues:
All helicopters suffer from vibration levels which are unpleasant and/or unhealthy both for man and machine. The interior noise leves are too high, and subjects a pilot to a significant risk of suffering damage to his/her hearing.
The problems of the S92A is not all the bells and whistles. High vibration levels leading to all sorts of cracks is. Also, parts falling off, dual failure of the lubrication system for the main gear box gives reason for consern.
Operating in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea the confidence in the aircraft seems to have been constantly fading since the introduction.
A few weeks back one S92A developed a crack in the main gesr box during final approach. This lead to all of the oil in the main gear box being drained. Even if the manufacuter claims dry-run capability, this is not a good thing.
The customers and the passengers organisations are not overjoyed by all of this. Still, the alternative aircraft types in the market are limited to the EC225, with its cramped cabin. According to colleagues flying the EC225, it does offer a smooth flight experience.
Since the EC products also suffer from its fair share of maintenance challenges, the whole selection process comes to down to a choice between poor alternatives, none of which really would be the preferred alternative if a smooth, quiet and reliable product entered the market place.
Keep in mind that none of the manufacturers are able to deliver aircraft in sufficient numbers at present, due to increased demand for new technology. To a certain extent this leads to the operators ordering aircraft from whomever can deliver in the next 2-5 years.
The good alternative should offer:
* Good ergonomics in the cockpit and cabin
* Standup cabin like the S61/S92.
* 5 blades like the EC225
* Performance in accordance with PC1
* De-icing, just in case, even though normal operations into known icing is not a preferred option
* Digital autopilot and flight director with quick and direct control of flight path, like the AS332L2 AND EC225, not like the S92A, which is a bit mushy
* Air conditioning, separate for the cockpit and cabin
* All sorts of bells and whistles to enhance work environment and reduce work loads, as well as impress wives, girlfriends and kids
* Etc.....
Regards, Olav