Scientists from the Lublin University of Technology (PL) are working on a new generation aircraft that combines the features of gyroplanes and multi-rotor aircraft.

Combining the advantages of a gyroplane i.e. a light, simple and cheap machine, with a multi-rotor assembly enabling vertical take-off and landing, will allow to design a flying ship with completely new properties – says project manager Dr Eng. Zbigniew Czyż from the Department of Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics and Aviation Drives PL.

SafeGyro, a hybrid unmanned aerial vehicle of vertical take-off and landing with the possibility of autorotation flight, will be economical to use and safe, and capable of performing tasks previously assigned to conventional air machines. Its advantage is also a relatively low price compared to an unmanned helicopter with similar take-off mass – adds Dr Eng. Czyż.

The work on the project will last 3 years. Its costs nearly PLN 1.5 million. The funds were granted by the National Center for Research and Development under the Leader X program.