Autogyros / gyrocopters
Hi Guys,
I’m not sure if this is the right place but I was reading about Gyrocopters and Autogyros and wondered how they get into use!
Firstly, and this may be a daft question, are autogyros and gyrocopters synonymous? If they are different, what is the difference?
Can they legally fly if designed/modified and built by an amateur and if not, what constitutes an amateur? Does an autogyro/gyrocopter require a Permit to Fly, who issues these and how is the machine deemed airworthy and safe?
If a test pilot flies it, is he independent from the builder? What if he decides it’s safe enough for an experienced pilot but not for an inexperienced pilot? Does he still issue a Permit or would there be restrictions on it?
Are there any rules that are different from fixed wing “home-build and design”?
Cheers
Whirls