Autorotations

Leonard Ellis wrote:

Actually, there was really no time for contemplation prior to landing, as
I'm sure most pilots of single-engine, low-level helicopters will recognize.
One's training kicks in and takes most of the "thinking" out of the
situation, particularly when fast and low. I always loved the questions one
gets from the maintenance guys after such an engine failure, "what was the
oil temperature? pressure? N1 speed?" My usual answer "I don't know! I
was busy trying to avoid flying into anything and then busy trying to land
the aircraft without busting my ass!"


After a low side governor failure in a Bell 206B with French tourists on
board I was later asked if the RPM drooped as I pulled pitch to land. I
didn't think and said I didn't know, I was too busy making sure I had
zero ground run. Later I realized I wasn't flying Army helicopters any
longer and that the FAA is chomping at the bit suspend or revoke
certificates. Gotta watch your words now.

Gyrocopters strike me as a little scary. Several guys 3 doors down from our
Skyhawk's hanger have one. There ain't much to it. I don't think you can
carry much more than yourself, a 16 oz bottle of water, and a toothbrush in
one of those things. Still, I would like to try flying one someday.

Cheers,
Leonard

Yes, the RAF2000 has no space for bags or extras but i was planning on
using the second seat to carry all that stuff. Now married, plans
change. I would have liked doing that. I retired after 25 years and my
retirement pay, even as low as it was, would work out just fine for
flying around the country. Plus a Gyro is always in autorotation. How
safe is that.

--

boB,
SAG 70

U.S. Army Aviation (retired)
Central Texas - 5NM West of Gray Army Airfield (KGRK)