Gyroplane Flying Podcast

The Journey Into Gyroplanes

In this conversation, Joe Covelli and Albert Dyer discuss the journey of getting into gyroplane flying, from initial interest and discovery flights to building and flying one's own gyroplane. They explore the importance of having a good instructor, the challenges of soloing, and the significance of community support in the learning process. Albert shares his personal experiences, insights on rotor management, and the technical aspects of building a gyroplane, emphasizing the excitement and challenges of the journey.   Takeaways   Albert's passion for gyroplanes started at a young age. Discovery flights are crucial for gauging interest. Building a gyroplane provides deep knowledge and confidence. Community support is vital in the learning process. Choosing the right instructor can make a significant difference. Rotor management is essential for safety in flying. Training should include ground school and practical flying. Experience in fixed-wing flying can help with gyroplane training. Regular inspections and community checks enhance safety. The journey of flying is filled with excitement and challenges. Chapters   Introduction Getting Started with Gyroplane Flying Building Your Own Gyroplane Training and Soloing in Gyroplanes Choosing the Right Equipment and Club Inspection and Maintenance of Gyroplanes Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Navigating Gyroplane Flight Training

In this conversation, Joe Covelli and Nathan Wagner discuss the essentials of gyroplane flying, focusing on training, certification, and safety. They emphasize the importance of professional instruction, the various certification levels available, and the budgeting required for training. Nathan shares insights on choosing the right instructor, the significance of a discovery flight, and the preparation needed for a check ride. The discussion also touches on the importance of consistent training and the different models of Magni Gyroplanes available for aspiring pilots. Nathan's website at Backcountry Gyro on YouTube is https://www.youtube.com/@BackcountryGyro [https://www.youtube.com/@BackcountryGyro]. Helpful Links Popular Rotorcraft Association CFI Listing [https://pra.org/instructors/] Magni GyroFlight CFI Listing [https://www.magnigyroflight.com/training] FAA First Step to Becoming a Pilot [https://www.faa.gov/pilots/become] FAA FAR Part 61 Pilot Certification [https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-14/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-61]   Takeaways Training is a crucial part of gyroplane flying. Discovery flights help determine if flying is for you. Choosing the right instructor is essential for safety. Understanding certification levels is important for new pilots. Budgeting for training should include more than just flight hours. Self-teaching in flying can lead to dangerous situations. Professional instruction is vital for managing rotor dynamics. Insurance considerations vary based on the training group. Preparation for a check ride is key to success. Consistency in training leads to better proficiency. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Gyroplane Flying 02:31 Getting Started with Gyroplane Training 04:05 Choosing the Right Instructor 07:08 Understanding Certification Levels 10:25 Budgeting for Training 19:05 The Importance of Professional Instruction 22:18 Insurance Considerations for Student Pilots 23:07 Preparing for the Check Ride 25:13 Training Approaches and Consistency 26:44 Overview of Magni Gyroplanes 28:49 Comparing Gyroplane Models

Behind the Scenes of Air Command's Redesign

In this episode of the Gyroplane Flying Podcast, Joe Covelli and Senior Design Engineer Keith LeMire discuss the extensive redesign of the Air Command Gyroplane. They delve into the challenges encountered during the redesign process, the innovative safety and comfort features added, and the overall improvements to the aircraft's assembly and functionality. The conversation highlights the importance of pilot safety, ease of use, and modern aesthetics in the new design, showcasing the dedication to creating a superior flying experience.   Takeaways   The Air Command Gyroplane has undergone significant redesign since its acquisition in 2017. Hundreds of parts and drawings were redone to improve the aircraft's design. The new design focuses on ease of assembly and enhanced safety features. Adjustable rudder pedals were introduced for better pilot fit and safety. The instrument panel has been updated for a more modern look and functionality. Accessibility improvements include a foot landing pad to make entry into the aircraft easier. The throttle control has been redesigned for better ergonomics and functionality. A new fuel pump integration enhances safety and efficiency. Structural reinforcements have been made to improve overall aircraft safety. The tail design has been updated for better aerodynamics and performance. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Gyroplane Innovations 02:52 The Journey of Redesigning Air Command Gyroplane 05:34 Enhancements in Assembly and Safety Features 08:26 Innovative Design Changes for Comfort and Control 11:29 Adjustable Features for Pilot Safety 14:17 Instrument Panel and Aerodynamic Improvements 16:58 Accessibility and User Experience Enhancements 20:11 Throttle and Control Innovations 22:38 Fuel System Integration and Safety 25:38 Structural Enhancements and Safety Features 28:26 Mast Design Evolution for Safety 31:18 Tail Design Changes and Aerodynamics 34:07 Final Thoughts on the New Air Command Gyroplane

Skywheels Rotors are Back! Update: New Gyroplane, Polaris 100 HP Engine

Air Command Gyroplane and Skywheels Rotor Blade President Joe Covelli provides a company update. The conversation focuses on engineering innovations for a new aviation engine, specifically the Polaris engine, and on upcoming test flights planned for 2026. It highlights the importance of components such as the adapter, gearbox, and propeller, as well as collaboration with experts in harmonics and vibration analysis. An update is provided on Skywheels rotor blades and Air Command's new single-seat model, Integrity. Takeaways We engineered an adapter that connects to the engine. The Polaris engine was displayed at AirVenture. The response from the Experimental Aircraft Channel was terrific. We are almost finished with the engine development. A harmonics and vibration consultant has been retained. High-level tests and analysis are currently being completed. Test flights are planned for the first part of 2026. The gearbox and propeller are crucial for flight. Collaboration with experts enhances the development process. Innovation in aviation requires thorough testing and analysis. Chapters 00:00 Engineering Innovations in Aviation 00:36 Testing and Future Developments

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Experimental Aircraft Building

In this episode of the Gyroplane Flying Podcast, host Joe Covelli speaks with Lisa Turner, an experienced aviation professional, about the top five mistakes that experimental builders make and how to avoid them. Lisa shares her journey in aviation, emphasizing the importance of following instructions, understanding fuel systems, and managing expectations during the building process. The conversation highlights the joy of flight and encourages builders to persevere through challenges while ensuring safety and quality in their projects. Takeaways Lisa Turner has been involved in aviation since 2006. The top five mistakes experimental builders make include not following instructions, fuel system errors, and hardware issues. Fuel systems are a common area of mistakes; using the wrong materials can lead to serious issues. Builders should keep a detailed builder's log for maintenance and airworthiness documentation. It's important to have a test plan before making the first flight. Managing expectations and time is crucial in the building process. The joy of flight is best experienced in small aircraft. Getting a repairman's certificate is beneficial for builders. Most builders do a fantastic job, and safety can be improved by addressing common mistakes. Perseverance is key in the aircraft building journey. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gyroplanes and Lisa Turner 03:03 Lisa Turner's Journey in Aviation 05:52 Top Five Mistakes Experimental Builders Make 09:14 Understanding Builder Errors and Maintenance Issues 12:08 Fuel Systems: Common Mistakes and Solutions 15:00 Hardware and Electrical Systems in Aircraft Building 17:53 The Importance of a Test Plan 21:12 Managing Expectations and Time in Aircraft Building 24:05 The Joy of Flight and Building Your Own Aircraft 26:51 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Builders