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The Sznycer Omega BS-12 was a utility helicopter manufactured by Omega Aircraft Corporation.It first took flight in October of 1956. Although Bernard Sznycer’s SG-VI-D/E Gray Gull never went into production, the design itself was considered a success and the Omega BS-12 represents a continuation of that design evolution. The BS-12 was meant to be a flying crane and utility helicopter. Specifically, it was meant to be inexpensive, easy to manufacture and most importantly cost-effective to run. The BS-12 used a twin-engine design, sporting two 210 horsepower Franklin piston engines. It was designed in such a way that it could land safely with just one operation engine, even if loaded with heavy cargo. Four passengers could be housed in the BS-12, but it was possible to fit an underslung passenger cabin as well. The BS-12 was not a success and four units are known to have been produced. The program was canceled in 1960.
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