McDonnell XHJH Whirlaway
The McDonnell XHJH Whirlaway was a 1940s American experimental twin-rotor helicopter designed and built by McDonnell Aircraft for the United States Navy.[1][2] It was the first successful twin-engined, twin rotor helicopter in the world.[2] The Whirlaway was the largest helicopter flown up to that time.[3]
Design and development
In 1944, the United States Navy issued a requirement for a large rescue helicopter with a capacity for ten occupants. The design was originally started by Douglas Aircraft and designated XHJD-1, following the merger with McDonnell it was re-designated the XHJH-1 before it was completed. The XHJH-1 first flew in August 1944, and had twin side-by-side 46 ft (14 m) rotors at the end of pylon wings which turned in opposite directions. Each rotor was powered by a 450 hp (336 kW) Pratt & Whitney R-985 engine.[2]
Variants
- XHJD-1
- Original United States Navy designation.[1]
- XHJH-1
- Designation changed before first flight.[1]
Aircraft on display
The sole XHJH-1 is held by the National Air and Space Museum.
Specifications
Data from [2]
General characteristics
- Length: 32 ft 2 in (9.80 m)
- Powerplant: 2 × Pratt & Whitney R-985 , 450 hp (340 kW) each
- Main rotor diameter: 2× 46 ft 0 in (14.02 m)
Performance
- Maximum speed: 120 mph (190 km/h; 100 kn)
- Cruise speed: 90 mph (78 kn; 140 km/h)
- Range: 300 mi (261 nmi; 483 km)
See also
- Related lists
References
- Notes
- Bibliography
- Andrade, John (1979). U.S.Military Aircraft Designations and Serials since 1909. Midland Counties Publications. ISBN ISBN 0-904597-22-9.
External links
USN helicopter designations pre-1962
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| Helicopter, Observation |
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| Helicopter, Trainer 1948-1962 |
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| Helicopter, Transport 1944-1962 |
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| Helicopter, Utility pre-1949 |
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| Helicopter, Utility 1950-1962 |
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