A Gyrocopter (also known as a gyroplane, or autogyro) is a type of rotorcraft that generates its lift via the principle of autorotation where the propeller at the back powers the gyro forward, and the rotors on top turn automatically as air rushes through their underside.
As these rotors turn they create the vertical lift that is required to keep the gyrocopter in the air. One of the real strengths of the gyro is that this autorotation means that if the engine stalls the rotors are still turning, allowing the pilot to gently guide the gyrocopter towards a safe landing area.
They look like a small helicopter, and offer around 90% of their functionality without the exorbitant costs that limit the access the average person has to flying choppers.
But Aren't Gyrocopters Dangerous?
In the past gyrocopters have been the recipient of their fair share of negative press, with stories of disastrous crashes seemingly the only news the majority of people have heard.
But not all gyrocopters are created equal.
There are a few different types of gyrocopter ranging from the home made variety, through to kit gyro's that you assemble yourself all the way up to gyrocopters that are factory designed and manufactured to stringent airworthiness standards.
It is these first two categories (home made and kit) where you will find virtually all of the incidents related to gyrocopters
So which should you choose?
Well, it kind of depends on what you want to get out of it.
If you're interested in getting hands on then you're probably keen to go down the path of making your own. You might start out with kit gyros to get your feet wet, before getting into your own designs and modifications later on.
On the other hand if you're purely interested in recreational flying then you're advised to stick with gyrocopters that are built to the highest possible standards to ensure your own safety and that of any passengers who fly with you.
If you'd like any more information on gyrocopters, feel free to visit our website listed below.
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