Wednesday 12 February 2014

Helicopter In Use Today [Part 2]

Previous --- Part 1

3. Bell 205

Following the development of the 204B were two improved versions of this aircraft. These are the Bell 205A and the Bell 205-A1.

The 205-A1 has experienced a long production run since its inception in 1968, with new aircraft being manufactured until 1978. The major use of this series has been in the petroleum support industry.



4. Bell 206

During the time in which the 204 and 205 series helicopters were being built to meet the market of a turbine-powered 10 to 15 passenger helicopter, a smaller turbine-powered helicopter was placed on the market -- the Model 206, better known as the Jet Ranger.

The 206 was first certificated in 1964. Because of its size and versatility it immediately found a substantial outlet in the civilian market. At the present time it enjoys an unprecedented popularity in many areas which include corporate, agriculture, construciton, petroleum support, and ambulance service. This helicopter may be found in almost all areas of the world performing various missions.



5. Bell 212

In addition to the large single turbine helicopters built by Bell, an additional twin engine was added to the Bell fleet -- Model 212. The 212 added twin engine reliability and IFR capability to the helicopters used for petroleum support and construction.



6. Bell 222

The latest of the Bell models to go into production is the Model 222. This helicopter is primarily aimed at the corporate market because of the twin turbine reliability and IFR capability. 



7. Bell 412

The Bell Model 412 is a growth version of the 212. Among the changes made to the aircraft include a four-bladed rotor system and a nodal beam vibration system. These added features have greatly contributed to passenger comfort. These helicopters are widely used by the petroleum support industry.



8. Bell 214ST

The newest of the Bell helicopter line is the Model 214ST. This model was developed as a joint venture of Bell and Iran. With the fall of their government, the helicopter development was completed by Bell. This model may be equipped with either skid gear or wheels and because of its range and carrying capability, is basically used for offshore oil work.




HILLER HELICOPTERS


1. Hiller UH-12

Shortly after the certification of the Bell 47, an other light helicopter went into production, the Hiller 12. The Hiller, like the Bell 47, was manufactured in a number of different models and enjoyed popularity  as both a civilian and a military helicopter. Although it may not have enjoyed the same popuplarity as the Bell, a great number of various models of the Hiller 12 are still in use today. In fact, the Hiller 12E is still being produced in small numbers as both a reciprocating-powered and as a turbine-powered helicopter. Like the Bell 47, the Hiller has been employed in numerous tasks which include training, agriculture, construction, and forestry. They are found through out the world, with one of the highest concentrations in the northwestern United States. Many operators prefer the Hiller for sling load operations because of its load carrying capabilities.


2. Hiller FH-1100

In addition to the Hiller 12, another model was built and marketed. This model, known as the FH-1100, was a five-place turbine helicopter and was marketed by the newly mergered Fairchild Hiller Corporation. This model did not obtain the popularity of the Hiller 12 and production was dropped after a few years. However, the 1100 is now back into production. Today there are still a limited number of the older 1100's operating.





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