The Bell 206B-3 JetRanger III is a multi-purpose helicopter developed by the American firm Bell Helicopter. It represents an evolution of the Jet Ranger II, retaining the same main rotor and fuselage dimensions, but incorporating a Rolls-Royce (Allison) 250-C20J or Allison 250-C20R/4 gas turbine engine with a power output of 313 kW.
Global Production and Evolution
Serial production of the Bell 206B-3 began in 1977 in the USA, where 1615 helicopters were built. Additionally, 300 helicopters were produced under license in Italy by the Augusta company, and another 275 in Canada by Mirabel. The largest customer for these helicopters was Petroleum Helicopters.
This versatile helicopter was also supplied to police units and military structures in various countries, such as the armed forces of Slovakia and the Croatian Air Force. The Bell 206B-3 is the latest representative of the Jet Ranger family, with its specific production commencing in 1986.
Specialized Military Variants
Based on this helicopter, the TH-57B Sea Ranger was created, a training helicopter for initial instruction with advanced equipment. The US Navy ordered 51 of these aircraft, with deliveries completed in 1985. Subsequently, the Navy ordered an additional 89 TH-57C helicopters, equipped specifically for night flights.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Bell 206В-3 |
| Main rotor diameter, m | 10.16 |
| Tail rotor diameter, m | 1.65 |
| Length, m | 11.82 |
| Height, m | 2.89 |
| Width, m | 1.95 |
| Empty weight | 772 |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 1519 |
| Internal fuel, l | 344 |
| Engine type | 1 Gas turbine engine Allison 250-C20R/4 |
| Power, kW | 1 x 313 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 241 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 213 |
| Practical range, km | 732 |
| Rate of climb, m/min | 390 |
| Service ceiling, m | 4115 |
| Static ceiling, m | 4023 |
| Crew, crew members | 1-2 |
| Payload | 3-4 passengers with 113 kg of cargo |
Image and diagram gallery of the Bell 206B-3 JetRanger III
 Bell 206B-3 JetRanger III |
 Bell 206B-3 JetRanger III |
 Bell 206B-3 JetRanger III |
 Bell 206B-3 JetRanger III |
 Bell 206B-3 JetRanger III |