Light Helicopters
Sikorsky Schweizer 333
ICAO: S333
Overview
The Sikorsky Schweizer 300C Utility is a piston-powered light helicopter adapted for both instruction and light utility work. Derived from the long-running 300 series, it emphasizes durability and straightforward maintenance. The aircraft has served civilian and government operators worldwide.
Specifications
Units
- Engine
- 1 × Textron Lycoming HIO-360-D1A
- Engine type
- Piston
- Power
- 190 hp · 142 kW
- Avionics
- —
- Wing tips
- No winglets
- Seats
- 3
- Crew
- —
- Cabin width
- —
- Cabin height
- —
- Cabin length
- —
- Exterior length
- 30 ft 10 in · 9.40 m
- Tail height
- —
- Fuselage diameter
- —
- Wing span
- 26 ft 11 in · 8.20 m
- Baggage volume
- —
- Gross weight
- —
- Empty weight
- —
- Max takeoff weight
- 2,050 lb · 950 kg
- Max landing weight
- —
- Max payload
- 950 lb · 450 kg
- Fuel capacity
- 30 gal · 100 L · 100 kg (AvGas)
- Max cruise speed
- 86 kt · 99 mph · 159 km/h
- Maximum speed
- —
- Cruise speed
- —
- Approach speed
- —
- Range
- 195 nm · 220 mi · 360 km
- Fuel burn
- 6.10 nm/gal · 2.98 km/L
- Ceiling
- 14,600 ft · 4,500 m
- Rate of climb
- 750 ft/min · 4 m/s
- Takeoff distance
- —
- Landing distance
- —
Gallery
(/)
tap to zoom
(/)
Operational Context
Sikorsky Schweizer 300C Utility — light piston multirole helicopter
The 300C Utility developed from earlier Schweizer 300 variants that evolved from the Hughes 269 design. Over time, the airframe was strengthened and adapted for broader mission profiles beyond primary training. The helicopter entered service in the late twentieth century and became common in light utility roles.
Powered by a Lycoming piston engine producing approximately 190 horsepower, the aircraft cruises near 90 knots (165 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is roughly 2,100 pounds (950 kg). Its three-blade rotor system provides stable hover characteristics and predictable control response.
The 300C Utility has been used for patrol, agricultural support, and light transport missions. Its simple mechanical systems and modest operating costs have contributed to its longevity. The aircraft remains a representative example of practical piston-powered rotary-wing design.