A Status Report on VTOL Short-Haul Systems

This paper traces the evolution of the VTOL short-haul concept from its origins in 1967 to the present. It shows how design proposals have become more responsive to the evolving system and economic requirements of the potential operating airlines. For example, Sikorsky is preparing a two-phase program beginning with the readily available 46-passenger S-65-40 helicopter, and followed by introduction of the 100-passenger S-200 compound aircraft in 1980. The VTOL market potential is discussed, as is projected acceptance of the VTOL short-haul system in the Northeast Corridor and the principal routes of western Europe.