Helio Courier (oz3035)

About this Plan

Helio YL-24 Courier. A 39in span scale FF model. For Allbon Merlin, or similar engine. Scale is 1/12. From Model Aircraft, September 1956.

Quote: "A one inch to the foot scale model of an unusual prototype built for the US Army. Helio Courier, by J Fergusson.

The Helio Courier represents the third stage of an interesting development attempting to produce a light aircraft that combines - among other features - quick takeoff and climb, fully controllable flight at low speeds, freedom from stall and spin, high cruising speed, and low landing speed.

A two-seat prototype was built, followed by a four-seat version known as the Helio-Four. It was this latter aircraft that provided the basis for the Courier, of which one example was delivered to the US Army for evaluation tests. This machine is designated YL-24 and has the serial number 22540 the fin and rudder.

The model is 1/12 scale and has lived up to the stable reputation of the full scale job in all its 200 flights to date. The only damage to date has been tissue tears on corn stubble, and a broken prop or two. At the PAA Scottish Rally held at Heathfield, it gained an equal 2nd in the scale event with only two flights.

Fuselage. Construction, although it looks complicated at first glance, is in fact very simple. A basic structure of 1/8 in sq longerons and 1/8 x 1/16 in struts with 1/16 in sheet stringers is overlaid to the rear of the cabin..."

Update 18/03/2016: Replaced this plan with a clearer copy (patterned background removed) thanks to TonyP.

Supplementary file notes

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