FH-1100

The FH‑1100, produced by the Hiller Aircraft Company in the early 1960s, was the first fully turbine‑powered light helicopter to enter series production in the United States. Development began in 1958 when Hiller sought a more powerful alternative to its piston‑engine models, and the prototype flew for the first time on 22 May 1960. Powered by a single Allison 250‑C18 turboshaft delivering 420 shaft horsepower, the FH‑1100 featured a compact three‑bladed main rotor, a streamlined fiberglass cabin, and a detachable tail boom that simplified maintenance. Its high power‑to‑weight ratio gave it superior climb performance and a service ceiling of 13,000 feet, while the flexible landing gear allowed operations from unprepared sites. Although only 299 units were built before production ceased in 1975, the FH‑1100 proved influential, demonstrating the viability of turbine engines in the light‑helicopter market and prompting competitors such as Bell and Hughes to adopt similar technology. The type also saw extensive use by the United States Army under the designation H‑43B, and later found a niche in offshore oil support, medical evacuation, and law‑enforcement roles, cementing its place in aviation history as a pioneering turbine‑powered workhorse.

Hiller Aircraft Company

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