title: Helowerks HX-1 Wasp
text: # Helowerks HX-1 Wasp
  
  The Helowerks HX-1 is an American ultralight homebuilt helicopter designed by Helowerks based at Hampton in Virginia.
  
  ## Design and development
  
  The Wasp is a traditional pod and boom helicopter with a twin-blade rotor powered by a 90shp (97 kW) Garrett JFS-100-13A turboshaft engine. It has a fixed skid landing gear and enclosed cabin with two-seat side-by-side seats. The Wasp design was started in 2001 and was exhibited unflown in 2005, it first flew around March 2006 after receiving FAA approval in the experimental category.
  
  ## Specifications
  
  Data from Jane's All the World's Aircraft 2008-2009
  
  General characteristics
  
  * Crew: 2
  * Length: 19 ft 0 in (5.79 m)
  * Height: 8 ft 3 in (2.51 m)
  * Empty weight: 700 lb (318 kg)
  * Gross weight: 1,200 lb (544 kg)
  * Powerplant: 1 × Garrett JFS-100-13A turboshaft engine , 15,048 lbf (66.94 kN) thrust
  * Main rotor diameter: 23 ft 0 in (7.01 m)
  
  Performance
  
  * Maximum speed: 113 mph (182 km/h, 98 kn)
  * Range: 127 mi (204 km, 110 nmi)
  * Service ceiling: 10,000 ft (3,050 m)
  