Sikorsky S-52
The Sikorsky S-52 was an early light helicopter that introduced several rotor-system innovations, including a rigid-blade design that improved manoeuvrability. It was used by the US Army as the YH-18 and by civilian operators for training and utility work. One S-52 became famous for setting helicopter speed records in the 1950s. Its small bubble cabin and exposed tail boom reflect the experimental character of the era’s light rotorcraft.
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Did you know?
The Sikorsky S-52 introduced a rigid rotor blade design for sharper manoeuvrability and once held a world helicopter speed record.
Specifications
| Length | 8.9 m (29 ft) |
|---|---|
| Height | 2.9 m (10 ft) |
| Rotor diameter | 10.7 m (35 ft) |
| Maximum passengers | 2 |
| Persons on board | 4 |
| Crew | 1 |
| Maximum take-off weight | 1.2 t |
| Range | 230 NM (426 km) |
| Maximum speed | 130 kt (241 km/h) |
| Service ceiling | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) |
| Optimum ceiling | 8,000 ft (2,438 m) |
| Rate of climb | 1,200 ft/min (6.1 m/s) |
| Fuel capacity | 210 l |
| Engines | 1x Franklin 6V4-200 |
Curated by CatchFlights from manufacturer documents, ICAO Doc 8643 and reference works; values are left out where no source could confirm them. Sources are listed on our credits page.
In CatchFlights
In CatchFlights the Sikorsky S-52 starts as a Legendary catch. The tier is an editorial judgement of how special a sighting of this type is. The more often you catch it, the closer it moves to Common for you. The first catch of a legendary type pays a bonus of its own.
A catch counts for the manufacturer Sikorsky, the S-52 family and the model in your collection, and the daily Type Rating quiz asks about the types of each family.
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