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Popular Rotorcraft Association Chapter 80 |
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Frequently Asked Gyroplane Questions
How long does it take to build a gyroplane? Building times will vary depending on the specific model of gyroplane. Typical build times vary from 80 to 1000 hours.
Can a gyroplane take off and land vertically? In general no. However, gyroplanes have a relatively short take off run and a zero foot landing run is possible. Some gyroplanes have a jump take off capability obtained by pre-rotating the rotor to high speeds and then using this energy to jump into the air.
What is a typical glide ration for a gyroplane? Typically 4 to 1, that is four feet forward for every one foot of decent. Nothing to write home about but it allows a safe glide path and landing to terrain directly below the aircraft should an emergency landing be required.
How long of a runway will I need? The length of the gyroplane take off roll depends on the wind, the amount of pre-rotation and other factors such as density altitude, aircraft loading and pilot technique. The take off roll can vary from near zero to several hundred feet.
What is a typical gyroplane's life expectancy? Like most other aircraft the gyroplane airframe has a virtually unlimited life expectancy. The rotor, propeller and engine will have varying life depending on the manufacturer. Typical life for engines and rotor systems vary between 1000 and 2000 hours.
This will depend mainly on the engine. A fuel-injected engine can operate at higher altitudes than a normally aspirated engine. A recent altitude record was set at over 20,000 feet. Most gyroplane flying is done from 500 to 1000 feet above the surface.
Can I teach myself to fly a gyroplane? Your chances of losing your life or being seriously injured are quite high if you attempt self-instruction. Just like learning to fly a fixed-wing aircraft requires instruction, learning to fly a gyroplane requires instruction from a competent gyroplane instructor.
I am an experienced fixed wing/helicopter pilot. Do I need gyroplane training? The answer is a definite YES!!! The gyroplane is a unique aircraft with flight characteristics that differ greatly from airplanes and helicopters. Experienced fixed-wing pilots with have some un-learning to do and typically take 15 hours or more to transition to a gyroplane. Helicopter pilots, due to their rotorcraft experience, can usually make the transition in 10 hours or more.
When can I obtain gyroplane flight training? Dual instruction is offered by many Certified Flight Instructors (CFI-Gyro) in the United States and other countries. See Instructor List
With proper instruction flying a gyroplane is a very safe and enjoyable sport.
What happens if the engine quits? Since the rotor on a gyroplane is always in autorotation an engine failure results in a forced landing. Due to the low landing speed and the short landing distance required this is an extremely safe operation. As a part of your standard flight instruction your flight instructor will insure that you are competent to perform this maneuver safely.
Does a gyroplane have to be registered with the FAA? Unless your gyroplane falls into the ultra-light category (less than 254 lbs) the answer is YES. Your gyroplane will require an N number and must be registered with the FAA. It will also require an Experimental Airworthiness Certificate.
Can I perform maintenance and repairs on my gyroplane? Once your gyroplane has an Experimental Airworthiness Certificate and you have flown the required number of test hours in a designated area you may apply for a repairman certificate. This certificate allows you to repair your own gyroplane and perform all required inspections.
Where can I obtain information on upcoming rotorcraft events? A good starting place is the Popular Rotorcraft Association website. The site provides a listing of upcoming events as well as links to the local chapters.
What is the difference between a gyroplane, gyrocopter and an autogiro? All three words refer to the same type of aircraft. Autogiro was an early term applied to this type of flying machine. When Igor Bensen marketed the plans for his single-place machine he trademarked the name "Gyrocopter". Gyroplane is the official FAA designation for this Category/Class of aircraft.
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