Cessna CH-1

The Cessna CH‑1 Skyhook was a unique helicopter built by the Cessna Aircraft Company in the 1960s. Development began in 1957 when Cessna acquired the rights to the Sikorsky S‑53 design and turned it into a light, two‑seat, tandem‑rotor machine for civil and military use. The prototype first flew on 28 July 1960 and received its type certificate in 1962. Only six examples were produced before the program ended due to high costs and limited demand.

Key features included a fully articulated three‑blade main rotor, a compact tail rotor, and a lightweight aluminum airframe with a maximum gross weight of 2,800 lb. The semi‑monocoque fuselage improved rigidity without adding weight, and the rotor system provided stable hover characteristics even in turbulent conditions. Powered by a Lycoming O‑360‑B1A engine delivering 180 hp, the CH‑1 could cruise at 100 knots and reach a ceiling of 13,000 ft. The tandem‑seat cockpit offered excellent visibility, and the aircraft could be fitted with floats or skid gear.

Although its production run was brief, the CH‑1 showed Cessna’s willingness to diversify beyond fixed‑wing aircraft and provided valuable rotorcraft insights that influenced later designs such as the Cessna CH‑200 series.

Cessna

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Design & Classification