Halo & Homer.

This is coolbert:

"China And Russia Team Up To Build World's Largest, Most Powerful Chopper"

"Currently, the largest and most powerful helicopter to have ever entered production is the gargantuan Mi-26 'Halo' of Russian origin, of which many still serve in governmental and commercial roles around the globe. After decades of the 'Halo' being on top, a new record holder is now said to be on the way, with Russia and China joining forces to make it happen."

Mi-26T2 Halo but not merely an improved version but a vastly improved version. Able to lift way more than any other existing helicopter. Think of the Halo as HEAVY CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY as might be found in the building trades. Civilian and military application  both.

Aeroflot civilian vesion of the Mi-26 from the Soviet era. Persons shown for some sense of scale.

Devoted readers to the blog will also like to view the accompanying video showing the Homer in action. Called the V-12, only two prototypes made, THE LARGEST HELICOPTER EVER EXISTING AGAIN ONLY THE PROTOTYPE STAGE!

Homer. Largest helicopter made and probably always will be. Persons again shown for scale.

My understanding is that these heavy lift helicopters of enormous size normally have more maintenance problems and preventative care required that makes for a lot of "down-time". NOT so cost efficient to operate such a gargantuan helio.

Perhaps with modern technology such constraints have been overcome?

coolbert.