The Helio Courier was designed in 1949 as a light, C/STOL aircraft with emphasis on off-airfield operations. The wings are of conventional leading edge slats that deploy automatically when the aircraft's airspeed falls below a certain value (55-60 mph). The slats contribute to the Helio's outstanding short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability, and allow for stall/spin-proof controllable flight. In conjunction with the leading-edge slats, 74% of the trailing edge incorporates high lift slotted flaps, together with interrupter blades atop each wing when roll control is lost at very low airspeed, allows for turn radius within the wingspan of the airplane. The Museum’s courier was owned by (Wikipedia) Lowell Thomas, Jr. and used to fly climbers and explorers throughout Alaska and in particular, Denali. Lowell donated the aircraft to the Museum in May 2010.
| Crew: | One | |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity: | 5 passengers | |
| Length: | 30 ft 8 in | 9.35 m |
| Wingspan: | 39 ft | 11.89 m |
| Height: | 8 ft 10 in | 2.69 m |
| Useful load: | 1,320 lb | 600 kg |
| Loaded weight: | 3,600 lb | 1,636 kg |
| Powerplant: | Lycoming GO-480-G1D6 geared 6-cylinder engine | |
| 295 hp | 220 kW |
|
| Performance | ||
| Maximum Speed: | 148 mph (170 kn) | 288 km/h |
| Range: | 1,380 mi (950 nmi) with 120 gal. fuel | 1,760 km |
| Service ceiling: | 20,500 ft | 6,250 m |
| Rate of climb: | 1,200 ft/min | 6.1 m/s |
