| Lightning | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Vortex M912 | |
| Role | Autogyro |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Sport Copter |
| Introduction | 1994 |
| Status | In production |
The Sport Copter Lightning is an American autogyro, designed and produced by Sport Copter of Scappoose, Oregon. The aircraft is supplied as a kit for amateur construction. [1] [2] [3] [4]
The base model Lightning was designed to comply with the US FAR 103 Ultralight Vehicles rules, including the category's maximum empty weight of 254 lb (115 kg). The aircraft has a standard empty weight of 252 lb (114 kg). It features a single main rotor, a single-seat open cockpit without a windshield, tricycle landing gear and a twin cylinder, air-cooled, two-stroke, single-ignition 50 hp (37 kW) Rotax 503 engine in pusher configuration. [1] [3] [4]
The aircraft fuselage is made from bolted-together aluminum tubing. Its 23 ft (7.0 m) diameter rotor is supplied ready-made and constructed from bonded dural aluminum by the company's subsidiary Sport USA LLC. The landing gear includes telescopic spring suspension. A semi-enclosed cockpit fairing with windshield is optional. [1] [3] [4]
The basic Lightning design has been developed into the heavier Vortex. [3] [4]
Reviewer Andre Cliche said of the Lightning: "In flight, the Lightning is forgiving and easy to maneuver, with light, geared-down controls. It is responsive but not tricky. It is a good choice for beginners." [1]
Data from Cliche and KitPlanes [1] [2]
General characteristics
Performance
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