Helicopter

Helicopter is a type of rotorcraft in which lift and thrust are supplied by one or more engine-driven rotors. This allows the helicopter to take off and land vertically, to hover, and to fly forward, backward, and laterally. These attributes allow helicopters to be used in congested or isolated areas where fixed-wing aircraft and many forms of VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft cannot perform.

History

The idea of the helicopter has been around since the Chinese flying top, but it was not until the 20th century that practical designs were developed. The first operational helicopter was the Focke-Wulf Fw 61, which was first flown in 1936.

Design

Helicopters are designed to meet certain requirements. These include the ability to hover, to fly forward, backward, and laterally, and to land and take off vertically. The main rotor provides lift and thrust, while the tail rotor provides directional control.

Uses

Helicopters are used in a variety of roles, including air ambulance, law enforcement, news and media, and in the military for air assault, cargo transport, and aerial reconnaissance.

Safety

While helicopters are versatile, they are also complex and require careful maintenance. Safety is a major concern, and pilots must be thoroughly trained. The Helicopter Safety Advisory Conference (HSAC) is an organization dedicated to improving safety in the helicopter industry.

See also

• List of helicopter manufacturers
• Helicopter flight controls
• Helicopter rotor

Helicopter Resources
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