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In May 1946 the Bell Model 47 became the first helicopter in the world to receive a commercial type certificate. The helicopter�s high price, over $20,000 resulted in few early commercial sales, but the military showed an early interest in the design and the Army acquired its first example in December 1946. HTL-2 is the Navy designation for the improved Model 47D with a more powerful engine and a Plexiglas bubble cockpit. A total of twelve HTL-2s were built and all were delivered to the Navy in 1948. The HTL-2 on display at the Pima Air & Space Museum is the first one built.
All photographs and text copyright Arizona Aerospace Foundation, 2009 and may not be used in any way without express written permission.
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| Main Rotor Diameter |
35 ft 1� in |
| Length |
41 ft in 2� i |
| Height |
9 ft 2 in |
| Weight |
2,078 lbs (loaded) |
| Maximum Speed |
92 mph |
| Service Ceiling |
13,000 ft |
| Range |
214 miles |
| Engines |
1 Franklin O-335-5/6V4-178-B32 , 178 hp |
| Crew |
2 |
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