This unusual aerial gyrocopter experience gives you the chance to discover what it’s like to fly a hybrid of a helicopter and fixed wing plane. The first prototypes of gyrocopters were invented back in 1919 by Juan de la Cierva and have proved eternally popular due to their flight agility and simplicity of design and construction. Flying in one of these rotor-motion machines will be a sky-high experience like no other!
Also known as gyroplanes or rotorplanes these modern gyrocopters are dual-controlled twin-seater aircraft with a tandem layout. If you are keen your experienced gyrocopter pilot will be happy for you to sit in the front for your flight giving you the best views and the chance to help them with the start-up procedures.
Gyrocopters are unique in using the phenomenon of autorotation – where forward motion causes the rotor blades to spin and produce lift. An engine and prop provide thrust like a plane or microlight but the rotors don’t need an engine to drive them (unlike a helicopter with directly driven rotors) relying instead on the aerodynamic force of moving air to rotate them. But don’t worry you won’t be tested on any of this technical info during these gyrocopter flights!
These ingenious creations can fly at surprisingly slow speeds whilst maintaining full control and with a headwind they can practically hover appearing to simply float in the air all thanks to autorotation. The result is a helicopter-like ride without the noise of the engines – instead there’s just the steady ‘thrum’ of the rotors turning. These gyro craft offer real performance and boasting short take off and landing distances means you’ll be maximising your airtime on these gyrocopter lesson experiences.
Standard craft have open cockpits so you’ll be provided with a flying suit and helmet with radio communications enabling you to talk to your gyro pilot as you fly. The gyrocopter you’ll be in is a factory designed and built MT03 Gyroplane fully approved and maintained to CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) and manufacturer standards. All the gyro pilots hold CAA Instructor ratings ensuring you’re in safe hands throughout the flight.
If you’re already a flying enthusiast or just fancy taking to the skies in a less conventional manner this intriguingly innovative gyrocopter experience is sure to pique your interest. Blending two modes of aeronautical transportation into one seamless airborne adventure our gyrocopter flights here in Rochester will get your flying dreams off the ground in no time.
