This was the first type of hard helmet mass produced for standard issue to the United States Air Force jet crewmen to provide buffeting and crash protection. The original P-1 was introduced in March 1948. The P-1A, was identical except for a neck strap which was added to prevent the helmet from tilting up durin maneuvers. With the addition of a sun visor an improved earphones in 1952, the helmet was designated as the Type P-3. The Type A-13A oxygen mask was used with this helmet.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date
ca. 1949
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Helmets & Headwear
Manufacturer
General Textile Mills, Inc.
Physical Description
United States Air Force Type P-1A Protective Flying Helmet; white fiberglass shell with leather strap webbing; brown rubber edge; leather oxygen mask straps with 3 snaps each; attached microphone cord in back of helmet; United States Air Force winged star insignia decal on front of helmet; natural colored cotton adjustable neck strap with snap.
Dimensions
3-D: 24.1 x 22.9 x 22.9cm (9 1/2 x 9 x 9 in.)
Materials
Shell: Fiberglass
Liner Webbing: Leather
Earphone Pads: Chamois
Inventory Number
A19800071000
Credit Line
Donated by Fred Griffith
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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