Hughes XH-17 - world's first flying crane (1952)

 


The jet-powered XH-17, Howard Hughes' new helicopter, has moved out of its hangar for ground tests (1952).  Designed for the Air Force for short-range moving of heavy military equipment, it will straddle and pick up cargo like a lumber lift. Two GE turbojets power the craft, supplying gas pressure through ducts leading up the rotor shaft and out to the blade tips. The 'copter appears to weigh at least 10 tons, stands about 40 feet high and spans about 110 feet from blade tip to blade tip.

Fun fact: By 2022, it still holds the world record for flying with the largest rotor system.