Igor Sikorsky

25 May 1889 – 26 October 1972

Igor Ivanovich Sikorsky (1889-1972) was a Russian-American aviation pioneer who designed and flew the world's first multi-engine fixed-wing aircraft and the first successful mass-produced helicopter. After emigrating from Russia following the revolution, he founded the Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in the United States. His VS-300 helicopter established the single-main-rotor configuration used by most helicopters today.

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Life events

Born in Kiev, Russian Empire
25 May 1889

Igor Ivanovich Sikorsky was born in Kiev (now Kyiv, Ukraine) into a family of Russian and Polish descent.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Built the first multi-engine aircraft, the Russky Vityaz
13 May 1913

Sikorsky designed and flew the world's first four-engine fixed-wing aircraft in Russia.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Developed the Ilya Muromets airliner and bomber
1914

His large multi-engine Ilya Muromets aircraft was the first airliner and was later adapted as a heavy bomber in World War I.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Emigrated to the United States
1919

Following the Russian Revolution, Sikorsky emigrated, arriving in the United States in 1919.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Founded the Sikorsky Aero Engineering Corporation
1923

Sikorsky established his aircraft manufacturing company on Long Island, New York, later part of United Aircraft.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Produced flying boats for transoceanic air travel
1934

Sikorsky's S-42 and other flying boats were used by Pan American Airways to pioneer long-range clipper routes.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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First flight of the VS-300 helicopter
14 September 1939

Sikorsky designed, built, and piloted the VS-300, which established the practical single-rotor helicopter configuration.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Developed the R-4, first mass-produced helicopter
1942

The Sikorsky R-4 became the world's first production helicopter and entered military service during World War II.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Retired as engineering manager of Sikorsky Aircraft
1957

Sikorsky stepped back from active management but continued as a consultant for the company.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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Died in Easton, Connecticut
26 October 1972

Sikorsky died at his home in Easton, Connecticut, at the age of 83.

Source: en.wikipedia.org
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