Plane Spotting - Piasecki (Vertol) H-21 Shawnee (also known as H-21 Workhorse or 'Flying Banana')

A classic Piasecki H-21 'Flying Banana' tandem-rotor helicopter, preserved in a striking red-and-white retro livery, on museum display.

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📝 Spotter's notes

A classic Piasecki H-21 'Flying Banana' tandem-rotor helicopter, preserved in a striking red-and-white retro livery, on museum display.

ICAO Type H21

Model H-21 Shawnee (also known as H-21 Workhorse or 'Flying Banana')

Manufacturer Piasecki (Vertol)

Livery Civilian/Restored Retro (red/white stripe scheme)

Military Civilian

Engine Wright R-1820-103 Cyclone radial piston engine

Thrust 1425 hp (1063 kW)

Wingspan N/A (rotor diameter: 13.41 m or 44 ft each)

Length 16.16 m

Height 4.83 m

MTOW 6,441 kg

Range 400 km

Capacity Up to 20 troops (or equivalent cargo/medevac)

Cruise Speed 173 km/h

Noise Rating N/A (pre-ICAO era/no standard rating)

Device iPhone 16 Pro