Quote:
Originally Posted by BobnBev
Doesn't look very safe, to me. Do you wear a parachute? What kind of engine? 2-way radio equipped?
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I regard gyrocopters as the motorcycles of the air. When I was in my 20s I would have flown in one. I would have bought and flown a Weedhopper 40 Ultralite (see photo) if I could have afforded it. Presently, my injuries preclude me from even mounting a gyrocopter, but I wouldn't do it even if I were able, just as I wouldn't ride a motorcycle.
I'm sure that flying a gyrocopter is exhilarating. I have flown small helicopters that weren't much larger, and always removed the doors.
I wouldn't discourage anyone who would like to fly one, but it wouldn't be for me even if I were physically fit. I would suggest that anyone who wants to give it a try should be sure to get a model that is "FAA type certified," just as I would want for fixed wing aircraft that I would fly.
There is also a significant qualifier regarding only needing a valid driver's license in lieu of a flight medical exam for a Sport Pilot's License. You must not know or have reason to know of any medical condition that would make you unable to operate a light-sport aircraft in a safe manner.