|
|
The Twin Squirrel is a twin engined development of the earlier Squirrel, and was selected by the RAF to perform in the VIP passenger role. Twin engined helicopters have far more flexibility of operation in peacetime than do the single engined variety, the Civil Aviation Authority rules governing the use of single engined helicopters, particularly over built up areas, are restrictive on the use of these aircraft. To allow the flexibility required by the RAF in this role, a twin engined aircraft was needed, and the Twin Squirrel was the logical choice, as it has a great deal in common with the Single Squirrel in service with the Joint Defence Helicopter School at RAF Shawbury. |
|
|
Powerplant: Two Allison 250-C20R turboshafts, each rated at 460shp Rotor Diameter: 35ft 0.75in (10.69m) Length: 42ft 5.5in (12.94m) Max Speed: 172mph (278 kmh) Accommodation: Two pilots' seats and three or four seats in the main cabin. Recognition: A smoothly contoured cabin emphasises the large cabin and cockpit windows, the cabin fairs into a tapering boom with a flat upper surface and a small swept fin above and below the extreme end of the boom. The engine fairing above the cabin has a low but wide frontal area, which becomes deeper and rounder toward the back. The rotor head is prominent and well raised in the centre of this. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
