Why is it hard to hover a helicopter and what are the best techniques to get proficient at it?
Hovering a helicopter is considered challenging for several reasons: Control Inputs: Hovering requires precise control inputs from the pilot to keep the aircraft stable. Small movements of the controls can significantly affect the helicopter’s attitude and position. Ground Effect: When hovering close to the ground, the helicopter experiences ground effect, which causes an increase in…
The Necessity of Change and the Barriers to Achieving It
By Alex P. Chaunt, Founder and CEO of Anthelion Helicopters Make no mistake, our industry is going through changes of such magnitude, that if left ignored, unquestioned, misinterpreted or glossed over will have severe and far reaching consequences for all helicopter industry businesses and affiliated organizations. While some of us may not be feeling them…
Why do helicopters have different types of yaw directional control mechanisms in their tail?
Helicopters have different types of yaw control mechanisms in their tail to counteract the torque produced by the main rotor and to control the direction the helicopter is facing. The main yaw control mechanisms used in helicopters are: Tail Rotor: This is a small rotor mounted on the tail boom of the helicopter, typically at a…
What are the different types of helicopter rotor systems
I see different helicopters with different numbers of blades. What are the different types of rotor systems that make this possible and why? Helicopters can have different numbers of rotor blades, and these variations are primarily due to the specific requirements of the helicopter’s design, performance, and intended use. The main types of rotor systems…
Where can you legally land a helicopter?
The legality of helicopter landings is subject to various regulations and restrictions that vary by country, region, and local jurisdiction. In general, helicopters have more flexibility in terms of landing locations compared to fixed-wing aircraft due to their ability to perform vertical takeoffs and landings. However, there are still specific rules and considerations that must…
How do helicopters get to the ground when they have an engine failure
When a helicopter experiences an engine failure, pilots rely on a critical maneuver called autorotation to safely bring the helicopter to the ground. Autorotation is a controlled descent in which the helicopter’s rotor blades continue to rotate due to the upward flow of air through the rotor system. This allows the helicopter to descend in…
Why Is A Helicopter’s Top Speed Limited?
A helicopter’s top speed is limited by several factors, including aerodynamics, mechanical limitations, and safety considerations. Unlike fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters face unique challenges that impose restrictions on their maximum achievable speed. Here are some key factors that limit a helicopter’s top speed: Aerodynamic Limitations: Helicopters generate lift and thrust from their rotor blades. As a…