Following the Russian Revolution and the collapse of the Russian Empire, Sikorsky, fearing for his safety due to his association with the Tsarist regime, emigrated to France. He soon immigrated to the United States, arriving in 1919.

Sikorsky faced initial challenges in the US. Unable to immediately resume his aviation career, he worked odd jobs and lectured on mathematics and astronomy to support himself.

With the help of fellow Russian émigrés, Sikorsky founded the Sikorsky Aero Engineering Corporation on Long Island, New York. The company initially focused on building aircraft for commercial and military use.

Sikorsky's company produced the S-29-A, a twin-engine transport aircraft. Despite facing some challenges, this marked Sikorsky's successful re-entry into aircraft manufacturing in the United States.

Sikorsky's company began specializing in the design and production of amphibious aircraft, including the S-38 and S-42 'Clippers'. These aircraft became famous for their role in pioneering Pan American Airways' transoceanic air routes.