Tuesday, September 04, 2007

Not a helicopter, not a trike, it's the Airscooter II


The latest in my "Not a Trike" flying machine series... this cute little critter is like a combination of helicopter and hovercraft. It has no tail rotor, no collective control, and redundant engine and control functions. They promise a price below $50,000 as well. Sign me up!

Check out the details from their site:

By eliminating the need and complexity of swashplates, collective and cyclic control through a coaxial rotor design a number of benefits beyond conventional helicopter designs are immediately realized. First; enhanced, intuitive flight controls are achieved by simple motorcycle-style handlebars and the absence of a tail rotor. To gain altitude, simply throttle up like you would on a motorcycle, turn left or right on the handlebars for craft rotation and move the handlebar assembly as a joystick for directional control (including reverse). No pedal controls are necessary, which means someone without the use of their legs can just as easily fly the AirScooter. Handlebar controls represent the most distinguishable feature of the AirScooter. AirScooter's patented design also provides an amazing level of stability while in the air and during flight.


LINK

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