Dick Smith and Bell Jetranger helicopter flown around the world
Program

Dick Smith: First Solo Helicopter Flight

Ended 15 Jun 2025
Powerhouse Castle Hill

On Dharug Land

Powerhouse Castle Hill

2 Green Rd, Castle Hill NSW 2154
‘To most people the helicopter is a short distance machine … but could a helicopter fly around the world? Well, that is what I wanted to find out.’
Dick Smith AC, entrepreneur and aviator

Dick Smith’s Bell 206B Jetranger III helicopter, flown during his record-breaking solo flight around the world, is now on display at Powerhouse Castle Hill. Between August 1982 and July 1983, Smith flew 55,000 km over 260 hours, setting world records, including the first solo helicopter flight across the Atlantic.

For the first time, visitors can also view the self-captured Super8 footage from this extraordinary journey, which has been newly digitised and conserved by Powerhouse.