For the student learning to fly helicopters in the 21st century, this book
is one of the essential keys to flight.
Helicopter pilots need to thoroughly
understand the consequences of their actions, and base them upon sound technical
knowledge. This textbook provides a foundation by explaining why the helicopter
flies and, more importantly, why it sometimes doesn't. It examines the
aerodynamic factors associated with rotor stalls, mast bumping, wind effect, as
well as maneuvering flight to include the hover, forward flight, the flare, and
autorotation. Helicopter design and components, performance, and weight and
balance is covered, along with special techniques such as different types of
takeoffs and landings, operating on sloping surfaces, sling operations, mountain
flying, and helicopter icing. Technical knowledge and sound handling are the
crucial ingredients that make a safe pilot.
This Second Edition benefits from additional discussion of the NOTAR system
and strakes, as well as frequently misunderstood principles of airspeed and high
altitude operations. The book also concludes with a multiple-choice practice
examination; used in conjunction with quizzes for each chapter, the reader can
test their grasp of helicopter aerodynamics.
Second Edition, Soft cover, 8.25" x 10.75", 320 pages, illustrated, glossary, index.
