Gyroplane Flying

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.TakeawaysLisa 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gyroplanes and Lisa Turner03:03 Lisa Turner's Journey in Aviation05:52 Top Five Mistakes Experimental Builders Make09:14 Understanding Builder Errors and Maintenance Issues12:08 Fuel Systems: Common Mistakes and Solutions15:00 Hardware and Electrical Systems in Aircraft Building17:53 The Importance of a Test Plan21:12 Managing Expectations and Time in Aircraft Building24:05 The Joy of Flight and Building Your Own Aircraft26:51 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Builders

In this episode of the Gyroplane Flying podcast, host Joe Covelli discusses the revival of the Skywheel rotor blades with test pilot Greg Bradley. They explore the history of the Skywheels, the testing of newly manufactured blades, their performance characteristics, and the importance of flight instruction in the gyroplane community. The conversation highlights the advancements in gyroplane technology and the excitement surrounding the future of gyroplane flying.TakeawaysThe Skywheel rotor blades have been refreshed and are back on the market.Testing of the new Skywheels showed improved performance compared to the originals.The manufacturing process for the new blades closely follows the original methods.High-inertia blades are beneficial for new pilots, providing a forgiving flying experience.Greg Bradley has extensive experience flying gyroplanes and testing the new blades.The importance of keeping rotor blades clean for optimal performance was emphasized.There is a growing need for more flight instructors in the gyroplane community.The podcast encourages interaction and questions from the audience.Future plans include the release of new gyroplane kits and continued support for pilots.The conversation reflects a strong community spirit within the gyroplane flying world.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gyroplane Flying Podcast01:14 Reviving the Skywheel Rotor Blades04:01 Testing the New Skywheel Blades10:00 Performance Characteristics of Skywheel Blades17:54 Cross Country Flight Experience24:05 The Importance of Flight Instruction28:50 Conclusion and Future Outlook

In this episode of the Gyroplane Flying Podcast, host Joe Covelli discusses the exciting return of Skywheels rotor blades with Jim Lezie, the former owner of Skywheels. They delve into the history and legacy of Skywheels, the performance and safety benefits of high inertia blades, and the quality assurance processes in place for the new production. Listeners gain insights into the importance of rotor blade design and the advancements made in manufacturing to ensure superior performance.TakeawaysThe Gyroplane Flying Podcast covers various topics about gyroplanes.Skywheels rotor blades are known for their stability and reliability.Jim Lezie played a crucial role in the transition of Skywheels.High-inertia blades allow for safer landings and better performance.The new Skywheels blades are made with advanced manufacturing techniques.Quality assurance is a priority in the production of Skywheels.The podcast aims to bring in experts for future discussions.Listeners can expect a mix of live and recorded episodes.The importance of rotor blade material and design is emphasized.Skywheels has a rich history dating back to 1984.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gyroplane Flying Podcast02:22 The Legacy of Skywheels and Jim Lezie03:15 Skywheels Rotor Blades: Performance and Safety09:01 High Inertia Blades: Importance and Benefits10:57 Quality Assurance in Skywheels Production

In this episode of the Gyroplane flying podcast, Joe Covelli interviews Jim McCutchen, the founder of Skywheels, discussing the history, engineering, and reputation of Skywheels rotor blades. They explore the extensive testing and quality control processes involved in manufacturing these blades, as well as the differences between various types of rotor blades available in the market. Jim shares insights into the Skywheels legacy and the community's engagement with the product.TakeawaysSkywheels has a spotless reputation in the gyroplane community.Extensive testing was conducted to ensure rotor blade quality.High inertia in rotor blades enhances safety during flight.Testing involved innovative methods like the 'gyro car'.Jim's interest in rotor blades was sparked by a tragic accident.Composite blades offer better fatigue characteristics than aluminum.Skywheels are manufactured using original molds and processes.Community feedback is crucial for new pilots considering rotor blades.Many pilots bought used gyros just for Skywheels blades.Jim will continue to support Skywheels with technical guidance.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gyroplanes and Skywheels03:17 The Legacy of Skywheels and Jim McCutchen09:52 Engineering and Testing of Rotor Blades14:07 Comparing Rotor Blade Types16:27 Skywheels Reputation and Community Insights