Gyroplane Flying Podcast

Air Command International
  • 5.0 (1)
  • AVIATION
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

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.

Episodes

  1. 2025-11-05

    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

  2. 2025-10-22

    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

    33 min

  3. 2025-10-22

    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

  4. 2025-10-22

    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
  5. Engineering Excellence in Rotor Blades

    2025-10-19

    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

    17 min
  • 5 Episodes

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Air Command International
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2025
  • Episodes
    5
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Air Command International
  • Show Website
    Gyroplane Flying Podcast