At the far end of the field, near the woods, the little village of Choppertown hosts an assortment of ultralight and experimental rotorcraft. Attracting attention this year was the Monarch-Butterfly kit gyrocopter, with new “g-force” landing gear. The hydraulic gear offers a wide stance for more stable landings, and high energy-absorption that is “friendly to low-time pilots,” according to the company brochure. Also popular was the ultralight Mosquito one-place helicopter. The little Mosquito, which sells for about $20,000 per kit, is a true helicopter, not a gyro, with a two-cycle, two-cylinder engine, an aluminum main mast, and a carbon-fiber tail boom and support struts. The company says construction of the Mosquito can be completed in 200 hours or less.
Flying (Almost) Straight Up
Key Takeaways:
- Choppertown showcased various ultralight and experimental rotorcraft, including gyrocopters and helicopters.
- The Monarch-Butterfly kit gyrocopter featured new "g-force" hydraulic landing gear designed for enhanced stability and energy absorption, making it beginner-friendly.
- The ultralight Mosquito one-place helicopter, a true helicopter, is available as a kit for about $20,000 and can be assembled in 200 hours or less.
See a mistake? Contact us.
