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H-19B “Whirlwind”

The UH/HH-19 Chickasaw is the original Air Force “Whirlybird” helicopter. It was first test flown in November 1942. It was developed from the Sikorsky S-55 and was the first transport helicopter to receive Civil Aviation Authority approval for commercial operation. The first Military version was test flown in November 1949, and production continued until March 1961. The Korean War provided a rigorous proving ground for the Chickasaw’s payload-carrying capabilities.  

In July 1952, two Military Air Transport Service H-19s completed the first transatlantic helicopter flight from Westover Air Force Base in Massachusetts to Prestwick, Scotland, by way of Labrador and Greenland. This flight was completed in 42 hours and 25 minutes.  

Our H-19B, S/N 53-4426 was accepted by the USAF on 27 August 1954.  

Specifications

Aircraft Type: H-19B, S/N 53-4426, Chickasaw, Sikorsky  

Mission: Search and rescue helicopter  

Number Built: During 10 years of production 1,181 H-19 Chickasaw helicopters were produced.  

Powerplant: One Wright R-1300-3 radial air-cooled engine, 800 horsepower  

Weight: Empty 5,250 pounds, loaded 7,900 pounds   

Dimensions: Rotor diameter 53′, length 42’3″, height 13’4″  

Performance: Maximum speed 112 MPH, cruising speed 91 MPH, service ceiling 5,800 feet  

Additional Exhibits