Utility helicopter

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A utility helicopter is a multi-purpose helicopter capable of pursuing a wide array of tasks. They have proven useful in both civilian and military operations, with versatility being their defining trait.

Helicopters play a crucial role in various aspects of civilian safety. Police and fire rescue aircraft demonstrate exceptional versatility across a broad spectrum of task. Common applications for civilian utility include traffic surveillance, medical evacuations, news coverage, and search and rescue missions. Recently, usage has been extended to air evacuations, air and water pollution control, emergency cargo transportation (including blood, organs, and special equipment), and as helitankers in aerial firefighting.

Traditionally, helicopters with three placed reciprocating engines, such as the 47G Series and the Hughes 300C were the primary choices for civilian use. However, the preference has been shifted towards turbine engines. The FH-100 and the Bell 206A JetRanger are examples of turbine engine helicopters which have proven to be more effective in operational scenarios.

The arising issue with civilian use helicopters is the price tag of the turbine engine helicopters. With initial cost being around $100,000, difficulties are posed when budgeting for the necessary modifications. Such modifications include night vision capabilities, infrared, and radar.

In military terms, a utility helicopter is an aircraft designed to transport troops, but is versatile in performing various combat roles. These tasks include command and control, logistics, casualty evacuation, and fire support. The defining characteristics of these helicopters are lightweight frames capable of quick maneuvers, and space, for transporting troops and cargo. Common types of cargo include ammunition, weapons, and food.

These aircraft play a crucial role in military operations by providing defensive capabilities in scenarios of evacuation and cargo transportation, as well as offensive roles in fire support and surveillance. Their ability to adapt to different mission requirements contribute significantly to the success of military objectives.

• Cargo hook (helicopter)
• Ground proximity warning system
• Utility aircraft

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Utility helicopters.

• The Utilization of Helicopters for Police Air Mobility: A Survey. The Center for Criminal Justice Operations and Management, National Institute for Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice. (February 1971). ICR 71-2.
• Kimball, J. (February 1, 2008). "Navy Provides Assistance When California Wildfires Strike".
• Utility and Cargo Helicopter Operations. Department of the Army. (n.d.).
• The Oxford Essential Dictionary of the U.S. Military. New York: Oxford University Press, 2001.
• Kümmel, Andreas et al. (2023). "Aerodynamic Design Modification for Utility Helicopters". Journal of Aerospace Engineering 36.4.
• Types of Rescue Helicopters. Chopper Spotter (December 1, 2021).
• Law Enforcement Completions. Heli-One (2023).