Bell 205

The Bell 205 is a single‑engine, medium‑lift helicopter that evolved from the legendary UH‑1 Iroquois family. First rolled out by Bell Textron in 1965, the civil version was marketed as the “Bell 205A” and quickly became the backbone of commercial rotorcraft operations worldwide. Its design retained the iconic “Huey” airframe while incorporating a larger, more powerful Pratt & Whitney PT6T Twin‑Pacer turboshaft, which delivered up to 1,800 shaft horsepower and improved high‑altitude performance. The spacious cabin, capable of seating up to fourteen passengers or transporting 2,500 lb of cargo, made the 205 a versatile platform for passenger transport, firefighting, oil‑field support, and medical evacuation. Robust landing gear and a simple, durable mechanical system contributed to its reputation for reliability in harsh environments, from the Amazon rainforest to the deserts of the Middle East. Over 5,000 units were produced, and the type set standards for helicopter safety, ease of maintenance, and operational flexibility. Its widespread adoption helped accelerate the global expansion of civil rotorcraft services, cementing Bell Textron’s legacy as a pioneering force in modern aviation.

Bell Textron

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Design & Classification