Image of the Air Force wings with the museum name underneath

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Helio U-10D Super Courier

The Super Courier was a light utility transport developed from a civilian design first tested in 1949. Its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability allowed it to operate from a clearing the size of a football field, and its ability to fly slowly at speeds of approximately 25-35 mph made it an excellent aircraft for visual reconnaissance. The original version of the U.S. Air Force Super Courier made its first flight in 1958. The USAF purchased three aircraft for evaluation the same year, designating them L-28As and later redesignating them U-10As. 

Eventually, more than 100 additional U-10As were ordered, mainly for use by air commando units in Southeast Asia. It was used for liaison, light cargo, small supply drop operations, psychological warfare (dropping leaflets and broadcasting propaganda), forward air controller (FAC) and reconnaissance missions.

The U-10D on display is painted and marked as an aircraft assigned to the 5th Air Commando Squadron in Southeast Asia in 1968.

TECHNICAL NOTES:
Armament: None
Engine: One Lycoming GO-480 six-cylinder engine of 295 hp
Crew: One (plus five passengers)
Maximum speed: 180 mph
Cruising speed: 160 mph
Range: 1,100 miles
Ceiling: 20,500 ft.
Span: 39 ft.
Length: 30 ft. 8 in.
Height: 8 ft. 10 in.
Weight: 3,600 lbs. loaded
Serial number: 66-14360

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