The H-1a helicopter, known for its distinctive design with long, stubby wings pointing upwards and landing gear on the tail boom, was developed to fill a niche in the light helicopter market. Its innovative design includes a large canopy that doubles as part of the cabin, significantly enhancing visibility for its four passengers despite a central area with reduced visibility.
Northeast Airlines, a regional carrier with a history of acquiring versatile and reliable aircraft, was among the early adopters of the H-1a. Their previous experience with the Garrett G-8, another robust model known for its dependability and performance, made them keen on integrating the H-1a into their fleet. The decision to purchase the H-1a was driven by the need for a helicopter that could offer both superior visibility and passenger comfort, essential for their operations in diverse and often challenging environments.
Also has:
Rotor flaps