Helicopters are amazing machines capable of taking off and landing vertically. Used for a wide variety of military and civilian purposes, helicopters range from the tiny GEN H-4 to the mighty Apache.
How Much Does A Helicopter Weigh?
The weight of a helicopter varies dramatically depending on its size and purpose.
The world’s smallest model is called the GEN H-4, which is a recreational helicopter weighing just 165 pounds (around 75 kg).
Meanwhile, a Robinson R22 weighs between 900 to 1,300 pounds (408 – 590 kg).
At the opposite end of the scale, a Boeing CH-47 Chinook is a powerful military helicopter that tips the scales at over 50,000 pounds (22,680 kg).
Helicopters are unique aircraft that can take off and land vertically, hover, and even fly backwards.
Most helicopters have one main spinning rotor, as well as a smaller rotor on the tail that stops the helicopter from entering a spin.
Some large cargo helicopters, including the Chinook, have two large rotors mounted at the front and back of the aircraft.
The concept of vertical flight has been around for thousands of years and is thought to have originated in China around 400 BC.
The first major advancement towards modern-day helicopters came in 1480, when Leonardo da Vinci designed an aerial screw.
~ Fun Fact ~
French test pilot Fred North holds the record for flying at the highest altitude ever recorded in a helicopter, reaching 42,489 ft in his AS 350 B2 “Squirrel.”
Resources
https://www.reference.com/world-view/much-helicopter-weigh-dce712752a4868f7
https://www.quora.com/Whats-the-highest-altitude-an-average-helicopter-can-fly