An Anthropometric Evaluation of the TH-57 Jetranger Helicopter

This paper summarizes results of a questionnaire and field study evaluating the TH-57 Bell Jetranger helicopter from anthropometric aspects. A questionnaire was prepared and distributed to the student pilots asking their opinions in regard to the problems associated with operating this helicopter. Over forty responses were received and analyzed which pointed toward the problem areas. The findings of the questionnaire was used in a field test to evaluate the helicopter objectively.

The respondents indicated that they had problems with a cramped cockpit environment, obstructed visibility, difficulties in reaching and even seeing some instruments and gages and several comfortability factors. The field test indicated that this helicopter is deficient in accomodating individuals within the allowable anthropometric ranges for student pilots. Additionally, many design features to aid in pilot safety and proficiency were given insufiicient attention or totally overlooked. Having identified these deficiencies, solutions were proposed to eliminate them. The result's of this study can be used to study the helicopter further and improve its design for a safer and more user friendly workspace.