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SureFlight completes first ever Sikorsky S-76D Utility to VIP conversion.
SureFlight Aircraft Completions is pleased to announce the first ever conversion of a Sikorsky S-76D offshore oil utility configuration to a corporate VIP configuration for Mirasol Sky LLC.
One of the largest customers for mid-size helicopters is offshore oil. With oil prices at historically low levels, there are surplus helicopters at lower prices compared to new. Deals can be had even on relatively new, low time utility configured aircraft, such the S-76D.
Mirasol Sky’s S-76D was SureFlight’s first opportunity to combine all its core competencies (paint, interiors, and avionics) on a S-76D utility to VIP conversion.
Scott Trejo, Director of Flight Operations for Mirasol Sky commented: “Taking a helicopter from utility to a VIP configuration was no small undertaking. SureFlight overcame many road blocks. The cabin is quite comfortable, and noise levels are very acceptable considering the weight savings over a more traditional VIP configured S-76D. The quality and detail put into the prep and paint is second to none in the business.”
Elaborating on Scott’s comments, Dan Watkins, CEO of SureFlight added, “The new VIP interior we completed consisted of removing the high-density seating and replacing with new VIP bench seats and cabinet drawers. A bulkhead was added between the crew seats and the cabin. The existing interior panels were finished with leather and ultra-leather and a cabin lighting system and intercom was added to the cabin. Lastly, tinted inner windows were added to all of the cabin panel windows and both door windows.”
Since SureFlight did not utilize the factory VIP interior, but rather converted the utility interior, there was a question about final noise levels. All parties involved were pleasantly surprised to find that it worked quite well. Normal conversations were easy in the cabin during flight. Dan further added, “One of the most significant advantages that Scott mentioned was the weight savings. Mirasol reported that the aircraft had approximately a 400 lb. weight savings compared to a VIP S-76D. That’s two people more!”
With the success of Mirsol Sky’s aircraft, SureFlight currently is in communication with several other potential customers for utility to VIP S-76D conversions.
About SureFlight, LLC
SureFlight is FAA Repair Station 7SUR489B specializing in high quality aircraft completions. SureFlight is an ISO 9001:2008 & AS9100:Rev.D certified company located 30 miles west of Philadelphia, PA at Chester County G.O. Carlson Airport (KMQS) in Coatesville, PA. SureFlight provides paint, interior, and avionics services. SureFlight customers include other regional repair stations, regional aircraft suppliers and OEMs, as well as direct owner/operators of rotorcraft, mid-size jets, turbo props and piston aircraft. Contact: 800-344-4018 or visit www.sureflight.com.
