Félix was originally a Bell 47G-2, the iconic bubble-canopied helicopter often seen on Calypso. However, later in Calypso’s operational history, the Hughes 300C (also known as the Schweizer 300C) was used as a replacement helicopter and was also nicknamed Félix.
From the Amazon to Antarctica, the Hughes 300C helicopter, affectionately named Félix, was the Cousteau Society’s aerial scout—offering unparalleled perspectives of Earth’s most remote landscapes. Whether navigating rainforest canopies or polar ice fields, Félix extended the reach of scientific and conservation efforts.
Key Contributions to Expeditions:
Aerial Scouting & Route Planning – Provided a bird’s-eye view for navigation and research, helping identify key locations for further exploration.
Cinematic Storytelling – Captured breathtaking aerial footage for Cousteau’s documentaries, offering unparalleled views of inaccessible landscapes.
Rapid Environmental Surveys – Assisted in mapping coral reefs, tracking deforestation, and monitoring wildlife migrations.
Support for Multi-Vehicle Exploration – Worked in tandem with hovercrafts, amphibious vehicles, and Calypso to coordinate logistical movements.
Scientific Data Collection – Enabled real-time environmental monitoring, including aerial photography for conservation efforts.
Expedition Highlights:
Amazon Rainforest – Identified research sites in the dense jungle, revealing deforestation and human impact on local ecosystems.
Antarctic Missions – Surveyed ice flows and marine life, providing valuable data on climate change.
Pacific Atolls – Provided aerial surveys of coral reef health and changes in marine biodiversity.
African Wetlands – Tracked migratory birds, assessed water quality, and documented the interconnectivity of wetland ecosystems.
Specifications:
Model: Hughes 300C
Range: ~350 miles
Capacity: 2 passengers
Role: Short-range reconnaissance, conservation research, and cinematography
