The CAF New England Wing, North Hampton, NH, has added a Hiller UH-12A helicopter to its collection following its donation in April 2026. The aircraft, now registered as N4977E, is currently being prepared for display and future public appearances. Its arrival adds to the CAF’s limited number of rotorcraft. Another example in the organization is the Bell H-13 Sioux “Bayou Belle,” operated by the Bayou State Escadrille. The Hiller UH-12, known in U.S. military service as the UH-23 Raven, was developed by Hiller Aircraft and first gained attention in 1949 when the type completed a transcontinental helicopter flight across the United States. During the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the aircraft was used in roles that included observation, liaison work, and medical evacuation. After military service, many examples continued operating in civilian and government roles, including agricultural work, law enforcement, and search-and-rescue missions.
The addition of the UH-12A also reflects the CAF’s broader move in recent years toward representing more post-WWII aircrafts. In 2024, for example, the CAF Gulf Coast Wing added a Douglas AC-47 Spooky connected to the Vietnam War period. According to the New England Wing, preparations for the helicopter’s future use are still in the early stages. Unit Leader Laurie Seymour said the group plans to take a measured approach before putting the aircraft into operation.
“We are super excited about this helicopter and the opportunity to share it. This Hiller is a beautiful example of a Korean War-era trainer, and we can hardly wait to tell her stories and help inspire young people to commit to aviation.” Seymour also said the Wing is focusing first on the aircraft’s condition and operational planning before moving ahead with public flight activity. “We do not plan on operating this Hiller immediately. As she is new to us, we want to ensure she is mechanically sound, that we have strong operational procedures, and that we’ve put together a meaningful program,” Seymour explained. The Wing said the helicopter is expected to become part of its wider outreach and educational efforts as preparations continue. For more information and to support the CAF New England Wing, click on this link: necaf.org.
