Bell 206 B3 – 1996

Description

Bell Jetranger 206 BIII – 1996

• TTSN: 2993 hrs
• Exterior: White with red/blue stripe detail
• Wire Strike Kit
• Cargo Hook Provisions
• Dual Controls
• Rotor Brake
• Wedge Windows
• High Skid Gear
• Garmin GNS430
• Audio Panel: Garmin GMA340
• Comm: Garmin SL30
• GTS-800 TCAS
• Radar Alt TRI40
• Ipod Socket
• Facet Filter Kit

History

In October 1960, the US Navy requested proposals on behalf of the Army… for a Light Observation Helicopter. Bell submitted the D-250 design (YOH-4A). On May 19, 1961, Bell and Hiller won the design competition. With this in mind… Bell developed the D-250 design into the Bell 206 aircraft. The first prototype flew on December 8, 1962. A redesign brought about a sleeker and more appealing fuselage, adding cargo space. Hence the designated Bell 206A, became the JetRanger. The first Bell 206A flew on January 10, 1966. In October 1966, the JetRanger received FAA certification. The Jetranger shape remained unchanged since 1967. Bell introduced the JetRanger 206 BII in 1971. The original 206 has evolved into the JetRanger II and the JetRanger III.

Design

The first JetRangers, were fitted with the 317 shp Allison 250-C18 engine. The first upgrade came in 1971 with the Allison 250-C20 and then in 1977 with the 420 shp Allison 250-C20J. The JetRanger 206 is a two-bladed, single… twin engined helicopter. Transmission design imposed a maximum 317 shp limit for all engines… although this still gave the JetRanger a useful load of almost 1,500 pounds. These engine upgrades redesignated the helicopter to the JetRanger 206 BII and BIII. The 206 has more than enough power in standard conditions. The 206 with the Allison -C20J 420 shaft HP engine give it… the best single-engine safety record for helicopters.

Bell designed the JetRanger III for conversion from JetRanger BII’s if desired. The 206 sits low on tubular skids, hence making it easy to load passengers and cargo. Dual controls are optional for two-pilot operation and training. Equally important… due to the turbines, the Bell 206 JetRanger is very responsive and nimble. JetRanger had seating for four, besides the pilot. It is certifiable for single-pilot IFR operation.

Jetranger 206 BIII upgrade: Allison 250-C20J engine. Additionally incorporated… an added 2 inches to tail rotor diameter for yaw control.

Bell Jetranger 206 BIII – 1996

It’s as a civilian aircraft however, that the JetRanger has seen its biggest success. The Bell 206 Jetranger BIII costs less to operate and maintain than any other craft its class. Moreover it has the highest resale value of any light helicopter. The Bell 206 JetRanger has become the most successful commercial helicopter ever produced.