Hiller Flying Platform

Overview
The Hiller VZ-1 Pawnee (U.S. Army designation; earlier Army designation: HO-1) was a unique direct-lift rotor aircraft, using contra-rotating ducted fans for lift inside a platform upon which the single pilot shifted body weight for directional control. The platform was developed starting in 1953 under an Office of Naval Research (ONR) contract to Hiller Aircraft, and flew successfully beginning in 1955.

The Idea
Hiller built a flying platform as a possible civil and military transport, but the main idea was as a battlefield transport for Army and Navy personnel.

Development
Hiller Aircraft's direct-lift rotor aircraft (Model 1031-A-1) first flew on the 20th of November, 1957.

The device
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The "Basic US GI factor"
It was assumed by the US Army that a 19 year old recruit with only basic training must be able to use the kit after a brief chat and couple of demonstrations without killing or seriously injuring him self or others. It was thought to be to complex.

Also see



 * 1) Bell Pogo
 * 2) Bell Helli-jeep
 * 3) Avro Flying Car
 * 4) Bell Helli-Vector
 * 5) KGB Chita Jet Belt
 * 6) Bell Textron Rocket Belt
 * 7) De Lackner HZ-1 Aerocycle
 * 8) Bensen B-10
 * 9) Williams X-Jet
 * 10) HZ-1 Aerocycle
 * 11) VZ-1 Pawnee