PIASECKI 59N 'SeaGeep'

U.S. Navy designation (non-standard): PA-59

Engines: 2 x 480 hp Airesearch 331-6

First flight: 8 November 1961 (pilot: S.A. "Tommy" Atkins)

For U.S. Navy trials, which began in June 1961, the VZ-8P (Model 59K) was fitted with floats and redesignated as the Model 59N 'SeaGeep',receiving the non-standard Navy designation of PA-59 (after the manufacturer's basic model number). Substituting a gas turbine for the two piston engines and adding two inflatable floats enabled the SeaGeep to operate from the water. Its compact size and weight made it ideal as a small ship based rescue, anti-submarine weapon’s carrier, and for ship-to-ship transfer.

Experimentation was conducted using various side shields to vary the water spray patterns around the ducts and to increase lift within ground effect without reducing lift out of ground lift. The spray pattern was negligible because spray was strongly forced away from the craft and not recirculated, allowing clean air to enter the ducts. Landings aboard ship were safe and uncomplicated because the rotating blades were enclosed in ducts. The float span was relatively wide, and the center of gravity low. Landings alongside ships and on various deck areas were successfully accomplished on the first attempt. Movies of the downwash flow over the water taken from an overhead helicopter and telephoto movies of forward flights at various altitudes over the water (NATC, PAX) recorded flow patterns that have been highly useful in VTOL downwash studies. Flights up to 220 feet above the water were conducted.

Experiments in sea rescue successfully demonstrated the desirable features of the 'SeaGeep'. Its ease of pilotage, maximum compactness, low profile and unique downwash characteristics gave impetus to further development, and the next version was the much improved Model 59H 'AirGeep II', also known as the VZ-8P(B).

Population: 1 [58-5510] (formerly known as VZ-8P)

Specs:
Length: 25.5 ft.
Width: 12.2 ft.
Height: 7.1 ft.
Rotor Prop Diameter: 7.5 ft.

Crew/passengers: 2