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

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[Image courtesy of Patrick Chovanec]

Key Takeaways:

The Bell 47, developed by Arthur Young and the first helicopter certified for civilian use, revolutionized medical evacuation during the Korean War, notably by MASH units, significantly increasing soldier survival rates.
Beyond its crucial military role as the H-13 Sioux, the Bell 47 became a versatile civilian icon, serving as the first TV news copter, assisting law enforcement, and even training Apollo astronauts.
Known for its bare-bones yet efficient design, including Young's stabilizing bar, the Bell 47 was produced until 1974 and is recognized for its lasting impact on both military and civilian aviation, earning a place in MoMA's collection.

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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.