Bell 222 - Definition and Overview

The Bell 222 is a helicopter made by Bell Helicopter Textron. It is similar in size to the UH-1 Huey but is designed for purely civilian use. It has twin turboshaft engines, a streamlined shape and is available with a retractable undercarriage.

The Bell 222 was made famous by the television show Airwolf where the helicopter type is a highly advanced combat helicopter with powerful weapons and capable of supersonic speeds.

Specifications (222B)

General Characteristics

• Crew: 1-2
• Capacity: 7-8
• Length: 42 ft 2 in (12.85 m)
• Main rotor diameter: 42 ft 0 in (12.8 m)
• Height: m ( ft)
• Main rotor area: 1,384 ft² (129 m²)
• Empty: 4,900 lb (2,223 kg)
• Loaded: 8,250 lb (3,742 kg)
• Maximum takeoff: 8,400 lb (3,818 kg)
• Powerplant: 2x Avco Lycoming LTS 101-650C-2, 684 shp (510 kW) each

Performance

• Maximum speed: 174 mph (278 km/h)
• Range: 333 miles (532 km)
• Service ceiling: 15,800 ft (4,815 m)
• Rate of climb: ft/min ( m/min)
• Main rotor loading: 6 lb/ft² (29 kg/m²)
• Power/Mass: 0.17 hp/lb (0.27 kW/kg)