FAQs

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An autogyro (also known as a gyroplane or gyrocopter) is a type of rotorcraft that uses an unpowered rotor in free autorotation to develop lift. Forward thrust is provided independently, by an engine-driven propeller. While similar to a helicopter rotor in appearance, the autogyro's rotor must have air flowing across the rotor disc to generate rotation, and the air flows upwards through the rotor disc rather than down. (source: Wikipedia)

How much does a gyroplane cost?

A used Gyroplane can be bought for around $10,000. Some cost more some less.

New Gyroplanes have a wide range. 

Kits builds start around $23,000 less engine and instruments

The more elaborate kits can go as high as $150,000 or more.

How fast can a gyroplane fly?

Depending on the type of machine, a Gyroplane can fly as slow as 25 mph. Cruise speed can range from 60 mph up to 100 mph. The top speed on some gyros can be as high as 120+ mph. 

How high can a gyroplane fly?

The typical service ceiling for most gyroplanes is 10,000 feet. 

The record for altitude is 27,556 feet.

That being said, I usually fly low and slow. That is why I bought and built mine. 

How much training is needed to fly a gyrocopter?

To fly a gyrocopter (gyroplane) solo, most students require 15 to 25 hours of one-on-one dual instruction. To obtain an FAA Sport Pilot certificate, a minimum of 20 hours is required, though most students should budget 35–70 hours to achieve proficiency and pass the practical check ride.

Do you have to have a license to fly a gyrocopter?

Yes and No. 

To legally fly any gyroplane that is not an ultralight (weighs less than 254 lbs.) you must have the following:

1.  A current 3rd class medical certificate (medical certification not required for Sport Pilot)
2. A student license or a sport pilot, private or commercial license

• Sport Pilot License (Minimums): 20 hours total flight time (15 hours dual, 5 hours solo).
• Private Pilot License (Minimums): 40 hours total flight time.

For the current rules and regulations check with a certified instructor. 

If my Gyrocopter is an ultralight do I need a license?

A true single seat ultralight requires no license to fly, assuming it meets the requirements of FAR Part 103 for an ultralight aircraft and meets the definitions described by the FAA. 

Part 103 established limits on size, performance, and configuration and also established that people flying them needed no certificate or medical qualification. 

For current rules and regulations check with a certified instructor

How does a gyroplane fly?

It has a propellor connected to an engine which moves it forward and which in turn pushes air through the rotors (like running with a child's windmill).? The rotors spin fast enough to create "lift" which lifts.

What if the engine fails?

As the engine does not control the rotors, they keep turning at exactly the same speed with or without the engine.? In the event of an engine failure, the Gyro will glide to the ground in a very slow and controlled manner.? This makes the Gyro one of the safest type of aircraft to be in should the engine fail.

Can a gyrocopter hover?

When it is in the air, the gyrocopter can hover if there is a strong headwind (approximately 15mph) meaning that it can fly straight and level at 15 mph and appear motionless from the ground., however it cannot increase height during a hover like a helicopter therefore is not able to take off and land vertically.? A gyrocopter requires a very short distance to take off, and an even shorter distance to land.

Where can I fly a gyrocopter?

Gyrocopters (gyroplanes) in the USA can operate in all almost all airspace classes (B, C, D, E, and G), provided they adhere to FAA regulations. They most commonly operate in uncontrolled Class G airspace up to ~10,000 feet but can enter controlled airspace (Class C/D) with ATC permission and standard equipment.

• Class G (Uncontrolled): No permission required, ideal for recreational flying.
• Class C & D (Towered): Allowed but requires 2-way radio communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC).
• Class B & C: Usually requires a transponder and/or ADS-B Out for identification.
• Restrictions: Gyrocopters should avoid densely populated urban areas, unauthorized commercial airports, and restricted areas.
• Typical Altitude: While capable of higher, most pilots operate between 500 and 3,000 feet above ground level (AGL).