Museum restorations are currently underway on a Bell 206A Jet Ranger. The helicopter is being restored in RCMP colours as part of a display that will pay tribute to the 70 years the Mounties had aircraft based in Edmonton, most of the time at Blatchford Field.
Specifications
- Rotor Diameter: 10.60 m
- Length: 12.11 m
- Powerplant: 1 x Allison 250-C20J turboshaft (310 kW)
- Maximum Speed: 222 km/h
- Cruise Speed: 185 km/h
- Range: 693 km
- Crew: 1
- Passengers: 4
Excerpt from Alberta Aviation Museum – 30 Years of Progress
Bell designed the helicopter for the U.S. Army’s Light Observation Helicopter program in 1962, following the success of their HU-01 Iroquois (“Huey”). They ultimately lost the contract and knew civilian operators would not want it in its original configuration. Undaunted, Bell’s engineers redesigned the fuselage with a sleeker look and more space for cargo and passengers. Powered by a turboshaft (jet) engine like the Huey, Bell dubbed the new helicopter the 206A JetRanger.
You can learn more about this aircraft by purchasing a copy of our 30th Anniversary Souvenir Book or by visiting the museum! Restoration tours take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays (depending on volunteer availability).
