The world's first jet-powered gyroplane has made its maiden flight. Groen Brothers Aviation, pioneers of the gyroplane, flew the Jet Hawk 4T outside Phoenix, Arizona earlier in the month. It is powered by a 420shp Rolls-Royce gas turbine engine.
The company believes that the Hawk gyroplanes will have a major impact on aviation in the 21st century. Its flight characteristics and simple design make it a safe and economical alternative for the rotorcraft and fixed wing industries, says the company. Probable uses include airborne law enforcement, traffic monitoring, air taxi, land management and aerial photography.
The Hawk 4 family is currently going through FAA type certification. Completion and first deliveries are scheduled for 2001.
Source: Flight Daily News
