Bell UH 1H – 1973

History

The Iroquois... designated as HU-1, hence nicknamed the Huey. Renamed UH-1 in 1962,  it became the first member of the prolific Huey family. Bell developed the UH-1 for the US Army's need of a medical evacuation and utility helicopter. It first flew in 1956. In 1960... the UH-1 was the first turbine-powered helicopter produced for the US military. While earlier short-body Hueys were a success... the Army wanted a version that could carry more troops. The Model 205 prototype flew in August 1961. In 1966, further improvements made to the design brought about a new model known as UH-1H.

Design

Bell UH-1... a utility military helicopter powered by a single turboshaft engine. Furthermore it features two-blade main and tail rotors. All aircraft in the UH-1 family have similar construction. Bell UH-H1... is not only one of the main variants.. but also the most produced version. The UH-H1 features a Lycoming T53-L-13 engine of 1,400 shp. The dynamic components include the transmission and rotor mast... main rotor blades and tail rotor driveshaft... and the 42-degree and 90-degree gearboxes. The landing gear consists of two arched cross tubes joining the skid shoes to prevent wear.

Optional are skis and inflatable floats. The UH-1H's dual controls consist of... not only a single hydraulic system boosting the cyclic stick... but also a collective lever and anti torque pedals. Used for starting up and shutting down are... collective levers with integral throttles. The standard fuel system consists of five interconnected fuel tanks.

Bell UH-1H - 1973

Many Huey's are still in use today... not only military but also in civilian capacities. Hueys operate in firefighting missions and humanitarian aid efforts. Further services include, research operations and search and rescue duties.