The JetRanger can trace its lineage back to an unsuccessful contender for a US Army competition for a light observation helicopter, which was won by the Hughes 500. This first Model 206 made its first flight on December 8 1962, while the following civil 206A, powered by a 235kW (317shp) Allison C18A, followed, flying on January 10 1966. Deliveries of the first production JetRangers began late in that same year.