TheBell 214 is a medium-lifthelicopter derived fromBell Helicopter's prolificUH-1 Huey series. TheBell 214ST shares the same model number, but is a larger, much-modified, twin-engined aircraft.
The original development of the Model 214 was announced by Bell in 1970 under the name "Huey Plus". The first prototype was based on aBell 205 airframe equipped with aLycoming T53-L-702 engine of 1,900shp.[1]
The first Bell 214A demonstration prototype followed and was evaluated inIran during field exercises with theImperial Iranian Armed Forces. The trial was judged successful and an order for 287 214A helicopters followed. The intention was that these aircraft would be constructed by Bell in theirDallas-Fort Worth facility and that a further 50 214As and 350Bell 214ST helicopters would then be built in Iran. In the event, 296 214A and 39 214C variants were delivered, before theIranian Revolution in 1979 ended the plans for Iranian production.[2]
Similar in size and appearance to theBell 205 andBell 212, the Bell 214 uses a single, more powerfulLycoming LTC4B-8 engine (2,930 shp; 2,185 kW) and upgraded rotor system, giving it a high lifting capacity and good performance at high temperatures and high altitudes.[3] It can be identified by the single large exhaust duct andwide chord rotor blades without stabilizer bars.
Bell offered the Bell 214B "BigLifter" for civil use.[3] It received certification in 1976. The 214B was produced until 1981. Powered by a 2,930 shp (2,183 kW)Lycoming T5508D turboshaft, it has the same rotor drive and transmission system as the 214A. The transmission is rated at 2,050 shp (1,528 kW) for take-off, with a maximum continuous power rating of 1,850 shp (1,379 kW). The BigLifter features advanced rotor hub with elastomeric bearings; an automatic flight control system with stability augmentation; and commercial avionics.[4]
Bell 214B BigLifter - Civil variant of the 214A.[3] 70 built.[9]
Bell 214B-1 - This variant of the Bell Model 214B is limited to a maximum 12,500 lb (5,670 kg) gross weight with an internal load due to different certification standards.[4][10] The external load is the same as the 214B. The only difference between the 214B and 214B-1 is the dataplate, and flight manual.[11]
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