Billings Flying Service, Inc. currently operates two Sikorsky S-61 helicopters: one S-61N model with shortened fuselage and one S-61A model (also known as as the SH-3 as operated by the US Navy.)
The Sikorsky S-61 helicopter is one of the most versatile heavy lift helicopters in operation today. It is well-suited for construction lift operations including powerline construction, aerial firefighting and various operations where precision and reliability demand only the best.
Our S-61 helicopters feature various modernized and upgraded components improving the performance and reliability of our aircraft over original configurations including:
- composite main rotor blades that improve gross weight and performance in high altitude or temperature operations
- General Electric CT58-140-1 engines providing additional horsepower
- modern avionics including state of the art GPS, aviation radios and digital FM communications radios for excellent air-to-ground communication
- Isolair 1000-gallon belly tanks for aerial application of water and fire retardant for aerial wildfire suppression
Sikorsky S-61 Specifications
| S-61N (Civilian Short) | S-61A (Restricted Cat.) | |
|---|---|---|
| Empty Weight | 11,200 lbs. (+/-) | 10,900 lbs. (+/-) |
| Gross Weight | 22,000 | 22,000 lbs. |
| Payload | Up to 10,800 lbs. | Up to 11,100 lbs. |
| Max Ext. Load | 11,000 lbs. | 11,000 lbs. |
| Powerplants | (2x) GE CT58-140-1 | (2x) GE CT58-140-1 |
| MR Blades | Carson Composite | Carson Composite |
| Configuratons | Passenger, Hook, Fire Tank, Fire Bucket | Hook, Fire Tank, Fire Bucket |
| Max Range | Approx 450nm | Approx 450nm |
| Available for | Construction lifting, firefighting, passenger transport, internal or external cargo missions, powerline construction | Construction lifting, firefighting, internal or external cargo missions, powerline construction |
