Bell UH-1 Iroquois “Huey”

The iconic utility helicopter that defined modern air mobility.

Bell UH-1 Iroquois © Thilo Parg

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Overview

Bell United States 1970–Present $20 million

The Bell UH-1 Iroquois, commonly known as the Huey, became synonymous with helicopter operations during the Vietnam War. Introduced in the late 1950s, it transformed battlefield mobility. The aircraft served in military and civilian roles worldwide.

Specifications

Units
Engine
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Engine type
-
Power
1,100 hp · 820 kW
Avionics
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Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
14
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
57 ft 1 in  ·  17.40 m
Tail height
—
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
47 ft 11 in  ·  14.60 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
9,500 lb  ·  4,300 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
3,900 lb  ·  1,750 kg
Fuel capacity
210 gal · 800 L · 600 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
109 kt  ·  125 mph  ·  202 km/h
Maximum speed
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Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
253 nm  ·  290 mi  ·  470 km
Fuel burn
1.20 nm/gal  ·  0.59 km/L
Ceiling
19,390 ft  ·  5,900 m
Rate of climb
1,755 ft/min  ·  9 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
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Operational Context

Bell UH-1 Iroquois — single-engine utility helicopter

The UH-1 first flew in 1956 and entered service in 1959. It featured a single turboshaft engine and two-blade main rotor, offering improved performance over piston-powered predecessors. The helicopter was designed for troop transport and medical evacuation missions.

Powered by a Lycoming T53 turboshaft engine producing approximately 1,400 shaft horsepower depending on variant, the UH-1 cruises at around 120 knots (222 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 9,500 pounds (4,309 kg). The cabin accommodates up to 14 personnel depending on configuration.

The Huey became one of the most recognizable helicopters in history. It served extensively in Vietnam and later conflicts. Numerous variants and upgrades extended its operational life across decades.