Taking a Flight in the Bell 47

Ride along on a Microsoft Flight Simulator journey through history in a Bell 47 helicopter.

Patrick Chovanec

Friday, August 04, 2023 at 04:22 PM ET

Verified

[Image courtesy of Patrick Chovanec]

Key Takeaways:

The Bell 47, developed from Arthur Young's pioneering work, was the first helicopter certified for civilian use and became an icon, notably for its critical role in MASH unit medical evacuations during the Korean War and its depiction in the TV show *M*A*S*H*.
Its bare-bones design featured a Lycoming engine and a revolutionary control system, including Young's stabilizing bar, which contributed to its versatility and successful deployment.
Beyond military service, the Bell 47 pioneered civilian applications, from being the first TV news helicopter and aiding law enforcement to training Apollo astronauts, solidifying its legacy as a transformative aircraft.

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Today in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, I’m in Korea to fly the Bell 47, the iconic chopper from the TV show M*A*S*H and the first helicopter to be certified for civilian use.

The Bell 47 was produced by Bell Aircraft, founded by Larry Bell in 1935. Bell was known for producing highly innovative if not necessarily successful airplanes during World War II, most notably the tricycle-gear P-39 Airacobra fighter.