Sikorsky S-55 Whirlwind FS2004

This edition of AlphaSim’s Sikorsky S-55 Whirlwind is intended for FS2004. Originally sold commercially, it became freeware in 2009 and depicts a distinctive transport helicopter from the piston-engine generation.

The real S-55 first flew on 10 November 1949 and received civil certification in 1952. Placing the engine in the nose, below the cockpit, freed space for a transport cabin close to the centre of gravity. This arrangement explains its distinctive profile.

It has a three-bladed main rotor, a two-bladed tail rotor and four-wheel landing gear. The ALAT helicopter museum describes accommodation for six to eight passengers, or six stretchers in a medical configuration. These real-aircraft details give context to transport and evacuation flights.

The family was licence-built in France, Japan and the United Kingdom, where Westland produced it as the Whirlwind. Forty-two British-built WS-55s were delivered to France for training and GH2 service in Algeria. Historical background: ALAT and Helicopter Museum.

The FSX release has a separate page.

• Freeware

Author

AlphaSim