U-10A Helio Super Courier - Short Takeoff and Landing Capability

The U-10 was used by the US Military as a special operations aircraft from 1950s to the 1970s. The takeoff shown is about 150 feet long with a shorter landing distance. The aircraft in the video USAF s/n 62-3603A was the first U-10, delivered to the US Air Force in 1962 to the 1st Air Commando Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Florida. '603' is the only flying U-10 in the authentic Southeast Asia paintscheme today.

The takeoff and landing operations seen here were performed on a warm spring morning, at 9:15 AM, the temperature was around 70° F, with a slight tailwind. The aircraft takes off in 6.5 lengths of the aircraft. The landing roll-out takes 6 lengths, less than 200 feet.

The aircraft powered by a Lycoming GO-480 geared, opposed reciprocating engine rated at 295 horsepower. The engine RPM has a maximum 3,450 RPM and it swings a 96-inch propeller, which is much larger than normal light aircraft. The Helio has the unique ability of being a Controllable Short Take Off and Landing airplane (C/STOL) able to fly safely at speeds of 30 mph in no-wind conditions.

The positioning of the main landing gear assist the aircraft in landing stability, being positioned far forward of the normal tailwheel configuration. This prevents the aircraft from nosing over with the brakes fully locked for minimal landing roll-out. At the time of its debut in 1954, it's closest rival was the helicopter.

Pilot for the demonstration is Mike Mower, a career humanitarian relief pilot who has flown the Helio in the Philippines for over 20 years.

Matthew Daly was the videographer and Nathan Mackey was the producer and film editor.

You can find out more information on this U-10 at   / heliowarbird  .