One of the rarest and least-known Cessnas ever produced, the CH-1 helicopter. [Credit: Cessna]
|

That Time Cessna Made a Helicopter

Known as the YH-41 Seneca in U.S. Army service, the CH-1 was evaluated and ultimately rejected by the branch. This example is equipped with experimental strakes atop the cabin to address stability concerns. [Credit: Cessna]
Known as the YH-41 Seneca in U.S. Army service, the CH-1 was evaluated and ultimately rejected by the branch. This example is equipped with experimental strakes atop the cabin to address stability concerns. [Credit: Cessna]

If you’d like to stump everyone at aviation trivia, simply ask them to name the Cessna with the shortest takeoff-and-landing distances. More than likely, guesses would include the O-1 Birddog and possibly the 180 and 182. However, digging into the dustier corners of Cessna’s history reveals the true winner—its one and only helicopter the company ever produced, the CH-1 Skyhook.

The idea of introducing a helicopter to the Cessna product line began to gain traction in the early 1950s. This was a time when the company’s fixed-wing offerings were relatively modest but were on the brink of massive expansion. The lineup in the early part of the decade consisted of the 120/140, 170, 180, 190/195, O-1, and the 310/320 twins but by the following decade would more than double in size and encompass entirely new categories. A helicopter, Cessna thought, would be one more way to gain market share.

Read Complete Article

Author: Jason McDowell

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.

My name is Mike and I run HoveringHelicopter.com. I started this website as a passion project about helicopters. I've always been fascinated by helicopters and always dreamed of becoming a helicopter pilot. It never happened but hasn't diminished my interest in helicopters.

Similar Posts

  • |

    The Evolution of the Bell 407: Building on the Legacy of the Bell 206

    ByMike Byrd

    The Bell 407 helicopter seamlessly integrates innovation and legacy, taking cues from the famed Bell 206 and the military-inspired OH-58. Introduced in 1995, this aircraft harmoniously blends groundbreaking design elements with proven performance features. From its robust engine to versatile variants like the Eagle 407 and the Bell 407GX, the 407 has made a global impact, mirroring the international acclaim of its predecessor. Delve into this article to understand the advancements, the global influence, and the lasting legacy of a helicopter that’s reshaping aerial transportation.

  • Helicopter Rides in Beautiful Hawaii

    ByMike Byrd

    If you have never visited the beautiful 50th state of the United States, Hawaii, then you have missed some of the best scenery available to American tourists. Hawaii is famous for the volcanoes, valleys, coastlines, and waterfalls that make up its island landscape, and for the five smaller islands that surround it. Helicopter rides are one of the most popular ways to explore such landmarks as the island of Oahu or any of Hawaii’s 5 volcanoes.

  • |

    Helicopter Flight Schools in Colorado

    ByMike Byrd

    Nestled amidst the rugged peaks and picturesque landscapes of Colorado, your dreams of mastering the art of helicopter flight can become a reality. Our article, “Helicopter Flight Schools in Colorado,” unveils the incredible opportunities that await aspiring pilots against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

    Imagine taking the controls and lifting off into the crisp, high-altitude skies of Colorado, where each training session is an adventure in itself. Colorado’s helicopter flight schools offer not just instruction but an experience that’s both challenging and awe-inspiring.

    From Springs Aviation in Peyton to the high-altitude expertise of Ravco Rota Aviation in Leadville, we’ve curated a list of top-notch flight schools. Whether you seek a career in aviation or simply want to conquer the skies for leisure, Colorado’s helicopter flight schools are your launchpad.

    Don’t miss the chance to turn your Rocky Mountain dreams into a soaring reality. Explore our article and start your journey today!

  • Helicopter Pilot Graduates are in High Demand

    ByMike Byrd

    In our contemporary landscape, the demand for helicopter pilots has reached unprecedented heights. These skilled professionals are indispensable in various sectors, from conducting life-saving medical missions and executing complex aerial surveys to catering to a booming interest in aerial tourism. As industries continue to broaden their horizons, the urgent requirement for adept helicopter pilots surges concurrently. This trend not only reflects the thrilling nature of the profession but also underscores its intrinsic rewards. Those who aspire to a career above the clouds will find themselves in a field with limitless opportunities, where the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.

  • |

    The Harvester Helicopter: Changing in Modern Agriculture

    ByMike Byrd

    In the realm of modern agriculture, few innovations have captured attention quite like the harvester helicopter. Beyond the unmistakable hum of its rotors and its aerial prowess, this marvel represents the synergy of aviation and farming. Navigating through challenging terrains, ensuring peak crop harvesting, and championing sustainable practices, the harvester helicopter is redefining agricultural benchmarks. With its blend of speed, efficiency, and reduced environmental impact, it’s emerging as a frontrunner in the push towards a greener, more productive future. Dive into our comprehensive exploration to understand how this aerial giant is setting the stage for the next era of farming. Whether you’re an agriculturist, tech enthusiast, or simply curious, this article promises insights that will make you look at the skies, and the fields below, in a whole new light.

  • The Remarkable Journey of the Airbus EC135 Helicopter

    ByMike Byrd

    The Airbus EC135 helicopter has a fascinating origin story. Initially, it was a humble demonstrator. However, it quickly climbed the ladder of popularity. Airbus decided to turn it into a production model.

    The EC135 began its journey in the 1970s. The EC135 was originally built by German manufacturer Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm and Aerospatiale as the BO 108. It was not just a helicopter, but a technology showcase. It aimed to highlight the latest advances in avionics and aerodynamics.