The Bell X-22 (also codenamed D-2127) was a vertical take-off
and landing (VTOL) research aircraft with tilting ducted
propellors. It was initially created to fulfill a US Navy
brief.
Two prototypes were constructed, and the first flight
tests were conducted in March of 1966. Unfortunately,
after a heavy landing the first prototype was damaged
beyond repair. The second Bell X-22 however flew up until
1984 when it was retired, it now resides in the Niagra
Aerospace Museum in Niagra Falls, New York.
During its operational lifetime the Bell X-22 was used
in tests for all three branches of the US military, as
well as the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and
NASA. Its final role was as a VTOL research aircraft operated
by Cornell Aeronautical Laboratory.
Powering the Bell X-22 were four 1250 horsepower GE turboshaft
engines mounted in the rear wing stubs. The four ducted
fans were connected to a common driveshaft. Top speed
of the Bell X-22 was 316 mph (509 km/h).
A feature of the Bell X-22 which proved useful from the
outset was its variable stability system. This allowed
researchers to alter the flight characteristics to simulate
other VTOL aircraft.
Similar and related vehicles:
Moller M400 Skycar 
PALV
Avrocar
NASA AD-1
H-4 Spruce Goose |
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