BENSEN GYROCOPTER

Plane & Pilot

Tuesday, September 01, 2009 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Omar Filipović

Key Takeaways:

Bensen Gyrocopters popularized homebuilt rotorcraft, allowing over 20,000 enthusiasts to construct their own machines from plans and kits using basic tools.
These versatile aircraft were available in glider (one or two-seater) and single-seat powered models, including float versions, with capabilities such as climbing to 12,500 feet.
Despite their impact on the sport and specific performance data provided, the original manufacturer, Bensen Aircraft Corp., is no longer in business.

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There are more than 20,000 active rotorcraft fans in the United States. Originator of the sport is Bensen Aircraft Corp. With purchase of the plans and component kits, it is possible to build a machine in a few weeks of spare time with only a drill press and a few wrenches. Bensen Gyrocopters can be towed behind a car or boat or flown under their own power. Float models are also available. The simple glider models are available as one or two-seaters. The powered gyrocopters are available only with a single seat. Bensen’s Gyrocopter is capable of climbing to 12,500 feet. (It is said “for each 500 feet in altitude, the seat gets two inches narrower.”) The powerplant is a 72- to 90-hp McCulloch. Bensen Aircraft is no longer in business.