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Gyroplane Flying Podcast episodes
- Skywheels Rotors are Back! Update: New Gyroplane, Polaris 100 HP Engine
Summary
The conversation focuses on the engineering innovations related to a new aviation engine, specifically the Polaris engine, and the upcoming test flights planned for 2026. It highlights the importance of various components like the adapter, gearbox, and propeller, as well as the 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
30 min - 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
34 min - Pilot Testing: Skywheels Rotor Blade Performance
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.
Takeaways
The 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.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Gyroplane Flying Podcast
01:14 Reviving the Skywheel Rotor Blades
04:01 Testing the New Skywheel Blades
10:00 Performance Characteristics of Skywheel Blades
17:54 Cross Country Flight Experience
24:05 The Importance of Flight Instruction
28:50 Conclusion and Future Outlook
32 min - High Inertia Rotor Blades are Safety
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.
Takeaways
The 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.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Gyroplane Flying Podcast
02:22 The Legacy of Skywheels and Jim Lezie
03:15 Skywheels Rotor Blades: Performance and Safety
09:01 High Inertia Blades: Importance and Benefits
10:57 Quality Assurance in Skywheels Production
15 min - Engineering Excellence in Rotor Blades
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.
Takeaways
Skywheels 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.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Gyroplanes and Skywheels
03:17 The Legacy of Skywheels and Jim McCutchen
09:52 Engineering and Testing of Rotor Blades
14:07 Comparing Rotor Blade Types
16:27 Skywheels Reputation and Community Insights
18 min - The Top Five Mistakes Small Aircraft Builders Make(March 13, 2021) In this podcast, meet Lisa Turner who reviews the top five mistakes that experimental builders make and how to avoid them. Lisa has been involved in Aviation since 2006. She's done work as an FAA-designated airworthiness representative, also referred to as a DAR, home-built counselor, A/P, and authored a few books. If you are an EAA member, you also know she writes a monthly column for Sport Aviation Magazine. Lisa’s passion for aviation is real and igniting. She’s most passionate about small homebuilt aircraft. I know you’ll find this discussion informative and helpful. If you're an Air Command gyroplane owner, make sure to download the > 12-month condition inspection guide.34 min
- An Introduction To Gyropedia Flight Training(February 20, 2021) Phil Harwood is chairman of the International Association of Professional Gyroplane Training which produces an online training program called Gyropedia. A few weeks ago, it was announced Gyropedia was selected by Air Command as its primary flight training program. According to podcast host, Joe Covelli, "The foundation of a great instructional program is its curriculum". Since 2013, Gyropedia logged into its system over 72,000 gyroplane flight hours. The flight training instructional program began as a worldwide standardization to lower gyroplane insurance costs. As Air Command brings its rotorcraft models back into production later this year, it is essential to use the best training resources to benefit both instructors and student pilots alike. A stable performing gyroplane is only as safe as the pilots who fly them.16 min
- Blackhawk's AS9100 Quality Program(January 30, 2021) In this podcast meet Al Thompson, Quality Assurance Manager at Blackhawk Aerospace Composites. Al describes the AS9100 aerospace standard they subscribe to for Blackhawk's quality assurance (QA) manufacturing program. Why should AS9100 certification be important to you when building a gyroplane kit or flying rotor blades? Listen to find out why.Air Command and Skywheels partnered with Blackhawk Aerospace Composites to manufacture rotor blade systems and gyroplane kit parts. Having a partner like Blackhawk, who subscribes to an AS9100 aerospace quality assurance standard to manufacture and check parts, is very important to Air Command and Skywheels and their commitment to customers about quality assurance when building and flying their gyroplane or rotor blade products.15 min
- Skywheels Stability with Former Owner Jim Lezie(January 12, 2021) Jim Lezie owned Skywheels Rotor Systems from 2001 to 2018. He is a seasoned veteran of rotorcraft. Jim’s been around rotors for years as a pilot in both the California Air National Guard and a military service member. When ABC Network News was looking for expert comment on the Kobe Bryant helicopter crash in 2020, they called and interviewed Jim Lezie.Jim was extensively involved with new owner Joe Covelli in the Skywheels transition, and ultimately bringing the product back into manufacturing and on the market again. In this podcast, Jim offers a great perspective on Skywheels and its stable and reliable performance. You will enjoy listening to his comments and perspective.15 min
- Skywheels Test Pilot Greg Bradley(December 22, 2020) In September, Skywheels Rotor Systems completed flight tests. Test pilot Greg Bradley put the new blades through their paces and goes over flight maneuvers and data acquired. Receive firsthand information about new rotor blade performance and flight characteristics.32 min
About Gyroplane Flying Podcast
From the publisher's feed
A Gyroplane is exciting to fly and handles like a fast-moving sports car in the sky. If you've never heard of a Gyroplane, this program will open your mind to one of the safest open-air flying…
aircraft in the world. Discover how easy it is to get started, and if you're already a pilot, consider adding a Gyroplane to your experience. We cover a range of Gyroplane topics. Join us for our live podcast or listen to a past episode. Air Command International sponsors Gyroplane Flying.