The MASH choppers were Bell 47 D1's as Matari correctly stated. After the MASH series ended, the aircraft used in the series were purchased by a flight school at Chino Airport. I had the opportunity to fly these helicopter on numerous occasions with the MASH paint scheme still in effect.
These (D1's) were very possibly the most underpowered helicopters I have personally flown. Having flown these aircraft truly made me appreciate the skill of the pilots in the Korean War.
I knew a lot of pilots with the Los Angeles County Sheriffs department at that time. They were Flying the S58's (radial engine) MD500C's & Bell 47 G3's. Several of the pilots related to me that the Bell 47G3 turbocharged version actually had better performance at altitude than the 500C. One of the Bell 47 drivers on a regular basis was able make rescues that the 500C's could not perform. These were events that were related directly to me by the guys who flew the missions.
In the early 80's, I regularly flew a Bell 47G2A1. Great machine.
Last edited by Stan Switek; 26th Apr 2009 at 06:27.