The Type 1-A Flying Helmet was the first flying helmet standardized by the United States Army Air Service in 1917. It remained in use throughout the mid-1920s. This helmet was worn by Lt. Byron M. Bates.
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
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT-Helmets & Headwear
Pilot
Lt. Byron M. Bates
Manufacturer
Western Electric Co., Inc.
Physical Description
United States Army Air Service (USAAS) Type 1-A leather flying helmet; slit back with laces for size adjustment; leather strap on top crown of helmet for size adjustment; molded leather ear cups; leather chin strap with slide buckle; leather straps with copper snaps by ear cup; molded fiber ear padding; orange sewn in manufacturer's tag on left inside of helmet (see Inscriptions for full text); etched text on left molded ear cup (see Marks for full text).
Dimensions
3-D: 40.6 x 22.9 x 7.6cm (16 x 9 x 3 in.)
Clothing Size: Medium
Materials
Helmet Exterior Shell: Leather
Lining and Ear Padding: Polished Cotton
Inventory Number
A19500113000
Credit Line
Donated by Mrs. Mary E. "Mother" Tusch
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.