These flying machines have been gaining popularity around the world since the first gyroplane took to the skies over Spain almost 100 years ago.
The gyroplane is characterized by a freely spinning rotor, which rotates due to air passing through the rotor from below. The downward component of the total aerodynamic response of the rotor gives lift to the vehicle, keeping it in the air, a state of flight called autorotation.
The freely rotating rotor blades are angled so that not only do they produce lift, but the angle of the blades causes the lift to accelerate the speed of the blades until the rotor is spinning at a steady speed with balanced drag and thrust forces. Unlike a helicopter, the gyroplane rotor is not coupled to the engine during flight; If the engine fails, the rotor remains in auto rotation (spontaneous rotation) at all times, which always ensures that the lift force remains in flight. It is the autorotation in case of an engine failure that allows the apparatus to slowly lose altitude while smoothly descending and the pilot has an opportunity to make a controlled landing. The centrifugal effect of the rotor ensures a very smooth and stable gyroplane flight, minimizing the effects of turbulence. Like no other rotorcraft, the gyroplane can be flown in strong winds and adverse weather conditions and can be used virtually year round.
A separate push propeller provides direct thrust and serves as the drive for the flying machine.
