Autogyro

An autogyro, or autogiro, is a type of rotorcraft in which forward propulsion is provided by an engine-driven propeller while the rotor remains free-spinning and is driven by autorotation. The rotor’s lift is produced by the airflow as the aircraft moves forward, not by the engine turning the rotor.

In flight the rotor is typically mounted on a mast above the fuselage, and many designs include a small fixed wing to provide additional lift at speed. The forward thrust propeller is usually located at the nose and powered by an engine. The rotor is unmanned by the engine, spinning freely; this enables autorotation, which allows lift at low airspeeds and provides a characteristic takeoff and landing profile with a relatively short runway. Autogyros cannot hover like helicopters.

Autogyros are generally slower and lighter than airplanes and are relatively inexpensive to operate compared with helicopters. Their rotor systems rely on continued forward motion to maintain rotor RPM, and the aircraft typically requires a short runway for takeoff and landing rather than vertical takeoff.

History and development: the autogyro was developed in the 1920s by Juan de la Cierva to reduce stall risk in early aircraft. It achieved several early milestones in the 1920s and 1930s, including widespread demonstrations in various countries. In the United States, Pitcairn produced autogiros during that era. Although helicopters ultimately displaced many practical uses, autogyros found and retain niches in sport, observation, and specialized roles.

Modern usage: today, autogyros, often called gyroplanes, are popular for recreational flying, aerial surveying, crop dusting, and certain law enforcement and border observation tasks in some regions. Designs vary, with some incorporating small wings or advanced rotor configurations.