From: Ray ®	09/11/2001 17:20:07
Subject: re: AVIATION FAQ	post id: 490482
If a single engine chopper has engine failure does it just drop to the ground or are there manoeuvers the pilot can do to prevent this? From Chris W (Avatar) It depends a lot on what the chopper is doing at the time of failure. If it is close to the ground and moving slowly or hovering then the chopper flies like a brick and hits hard. If the helicopter is high enough then the pilot can place the chopper into a configuration that maintains a certain forward airspeed (helicopter dependent). The forward motion keeps the rotor turning. At a point reasonably close to the ground the pilot performs a manoeuver that converts the forward motion/rotor spin into short lived lift. This breaks the fall, but the landing still wouldn't be pleasant. The procedure is called autorotation. Can helicopters fly upsidedown? From Chris W (Avatar) Momentarily yes. Sustained no. Model helicopters of the radio controlled variety can be flown inverted for extended periods, but getting them into that position is quite challenge. See How do Helicopters Work? How Helicopters Work