Vertol VZ-2

The Vertol VZ-2 (or Model 76) was a research aircraft built in the United States in 1957 to investigate the tiltwing approach to vertical take-off and landing.

VZ-2
Role Tiltwing research aircraft
Manufacturer Vertol (later Boeing Vertol)
First flight 13 August 1957
Retired 1965
Status Preserved
Primary user NASA
Number built 1

Design and development

The aircraft had a fuselage of tubular framework (originally uncovered) and accommodation for its pilot in a helicopter-like bubble canopy. The T-tail incorporated small ducted fans to act as thrusters for greater control at low speeds.

Ground tests began in April 1957 and on 13 August, the VZ-2 took off for the first time in hover mode only. On 23 July 1958, the aircraft made its first full transition from vertical flight to horizontal flight. By the time the test program ended in 1965, the VZ-2 had made some 450 flights, including 34 full transitions. The aircraft has been preserved by the National Air and Space Museum in storage at the Paul E. Garber Preservation, Restoration, and Storage Facility.

Specifications
The VZ-2 in flight in 1958.

General characteristics

  • Crew: one pilot
  • Capacity: 1 passenger/observer
  • Length: 26 ft 5 in (8.05 m)
  • Wingspan: 24 ft 11 in (7.59 m)
  • Diameter: 9 ft 6 in (2.90 m)
  • Height: 15 ft 0 in (4.57 m)
  • Empty weight: 3,700 lb (1,678 kg)
  • Powerplant: 1 × Avco Lycoming YT53-L-1 turboshaft , 700 hp (522 kW)

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 210 mph (340 km/h, 180 kn)
  • Range: 130 mi (210 km, 110 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 13,800 ft (4,200 m)

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

References
    • Taylor, Michael J. H. (1989). Jane's Encyclopedia of Aviation. London: Studio Editions. p. 191.
    • World Aircraft Information Files. London: Bright Star Publishing. pp. File 890 Sheet 72.
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