Airwolf is the helicopter from the 1980s American eponymous television series. Its fictional features included stratospheric ceiling, stealth noise signature, a wide range of weapons and even supersonic speed. The flying Airwolf was derived from a Bell 222, that has seen service with a large number of civil operators, but only limited military service.
The airframe used for Airwolf was serial number 47085 (registration number N3176S), sometimes unofficially called a Bell 222A. After the show was canceled, the modifications were removed from the actual helicopter. It was repainted and eventually sold to the German helicopter charter company, Hubschrauber-Sonder-Dienst (aka HSD Luftrettung and Blue Helicopter Alliance), and given the registration number D-HHSD. While operating as an air ambulance the helicopter crashed in fog on June 6, 1992, killing all three of its occupants.
This action show was terrific fun – with its keen sense of humour and plenty of thrilling airborne espionage on a weekly basis, using a Bell 222A helicopter. 1st class production values and exemplary aerial photography set new high standards for rotary action on TV.
