An Economic Assessment of the Hot Cycle Compound Helicopter for VTOL Transport

Design, performance, and operational features of the hot cycle compound helicopter are described, and its economic characteristics are analyzed on the basis of available air transport cost data. This aircraft promises operating costs about one-half those of the best competitive VTOL transport types because of its simple, lightweight pneumatic drive system and good cruise efficiency.

Feasibility of hot cycle compound is shown by a brief description of the applicable research and development work accomplished. Included in this work has been a validation of all propulsion system components by full scale testing.