Cessna CH-1
The CH-1 was an attempt by Cessna to break into the rotary wing market. Built for commercial operation in 1953, the CH-1 was the result of Cessna acquiring the Siebel Company a year earlier. The helicopter had a cabin very similar to that of a private aircraft. The 260 hp six-cylinder opposed Continental engine was installed in the nose; and drove a conventional two-blade rotor through a shaft passing between the two pilot seats. Only a few CH-1 commercial models were built and production ended in December 1962 when Cessna decided that the civil helicopter market was not yet ready for sound investment. However the helicopter was also evaluated by the armed forces. Ten were built for the US Army as Model YH-41 Seneca for high altitude tests, and another four were sold to Ecuador. (Note: I have pictures dated 1964 of Ch-1C helicopters with the Imperial Iranian Air Force)
Helicopter: Cessna CH-1
Manufacturer: Cessna Aircraft Company
Type: executive transport
Year: 1954 -
REMARKS:
Cessna introduced a new helicopter, embodying inherent stability characteristics comparable to those of a fixed wing aircraft, to the armed forces in mid-1959. The new helicopter, designated the CH-1C, represents a substantial technical advancement which qualifies the ship for instrument flight operation without the necessity for electronic stabilizing devices. In addition to its instrument capability, the CH-1C was designed for reconnaissance-observation, light personnel transport, and instrument training missions. It is a four-place helicopter with a maximum gross weight of 3100 pounds. It was officially approved by the FAA and issued a type certificate in late July, 1959. (Cessna product literature)
Fuel Capacity
Standard Tanks 60 US gallons
With Auxiliary Tanks 90 US gallons
Engine: Continental FSO-526-A, 270 horsepower
Average Fuel Consumption (75 KIAS) 21 gallons/hour
Maximum Continuous Operation: 3,000 RPM
Maximum for Takeoff 3,200 RPM
(up to 5 minutes)
Rotors:
Main Rotor Diameter 35 feet
Main Rotor Chord 13 inches
Tail Rotor Diameter 7 feet
Performance (at 3,100 pounds):
Maximum Speed 106 KIAS
Normal Cruise 78-104 KIAS
Maximum Range Cruise 75 KIAS
Rate of Climb at 8,000
feet MSL 1,030 feet/minute
Time to Climb to 10,000
feet MSL 10.3 minutes
Hovering Ceiling in
Ground Effect 9,600 feet
Range and Endurance, Standard Tanks
Maximum Range, no reserves 230 nautical miles
30 minute reserve 190 nautical miles
Maximum Endurance 3 hours, 20 minutes
