H-19
Chickawaw
H-19/UH-19 Series Chickasaw
utility and light tactical helicopter (1949). The Sikorsky
(model S-55), initially procured in November 1949, was the
World's first transport helicopter. The 12-place H-19
(redesignated UH-19 in 1962), with a crew of two, served as a
utility, troop carrier, and rescue helicopter with winch. Model
numbers ranged from A thru D. In the MedEvac role it could carry
six litters and one medical attendant. For the first time
casualties could be carried and attended to under cover, within
the aircraft. Two companies of H-19 Chickasaw helicopters proved
the value of helicopter transport by moving cargo and personnel
during the final months of the Korean war and then by
participating in prisoner exchanges and other functions after the
cessation of hostilities. The Sikorsky (model S-55) was licensed
and built in Great Britain as the "Whirlwind". The
UH-19 had a three-bladed main rotor and a metal two-bladed tail
rotor. Models A thru C were powered by a single Pratt &
Whitney R-1340-57 550 hp engine. Model D was powered by a
Curtis-Wright R-1300-3 700hp piston engine. The Chickasaw had a
speed of 113 mph (98 knots). The UH-19D had a cruising speed of
75 mph (65 knots).
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