Redback Aviation's Buzzard homebuilt helicopter

NOTE: Discontinued Project

The single seat Buzzard helicopter incorporates the simplicity of a basic aluminium airframe with easily maintainable design features. Originally based on the Lonestar kit helicopter of the mid 90's, Redback Aviation found ways to improve a number of areas to increase safety and reduce maintenance of the helicopter. The redesigning has been so thorough that the new Buzzard personal >helicopter now bears little resemblance to the craft that originally inspired its creation. Our changes include an extended composite tail boom with support struts, a shaft driven tail rotor, redesigned airframe, drive shaft end supports and new a main rotor head.

TAIL ROTOR GEARBOX: Its drive system has been kept simple yet strong and reliable. Primary drive is by standard commercial helicopter style clutchable multi v-belts followed by a double industrial quality cog belt to the main drive shaft. Tail rotor drive is through two small right angle gearboxes with some basic shaft modifications.

ROTORHEAD: A through shaft control system streamlines the overall appearance and gives it a light and responsive feel. The main rotor assembly has many similarities to other kit and plans built helicopters offering strength and reliability. The tail rotor assembly is based on standard commercial helicopter design and is controlled by a heavy duty push pull cable.

ENGINE INSTALLATION: We chose to use the more widely accepted four stroke engine known for their lower rpm range and reliability. Our custom designed fan cooled four stroke engine is based on commonly available after market Volkswagon parts. It has been specially modified to run in the vertical position along with electronic fuel and ignition management for low fuel consumption and altitude compensation. Other engines such as the two stroke Zanzottera or Hirth can be utilised for ultralight rating although we have only installed and tested our engine at this stage. Please see updates page for further information.

PARTS: As with any aircraft there is some machining involved in building the Buzzard although this has been kept to a minimum to reduce costs while still retaining a high level of safety. It is recommended that all critical components be professionally engineered to assure accuracy.

Buzzard  Helicopter  Specifications
Engine T.B.A.
Engine rpm 3200
Engine horsepower 75hp
Main rotor blades Aluminium - composite optional
Main rotor diameter 20 feet/6.096m
Main rotor rpm 525-530
Tail rotor diameter 3 feet 6 inches/1.067m
Tail rotor rpm 3106
Fuel capacity approx 15 gallons/58.5 litres
Fuel consumption approx 5gph/19.5lph
Empty weight 425lbs/193kgs
Gross weight 850lbs/386kgs
Rate of climb 1000fpm/5.08mps
Cruise speed 90mph/145kmph/78kts
Maximum speed 105mph/169kmph/91kts
VNE 115mph/185kmph/100kts
HIGE 6000ft/1830m
HOGE 5000ft/1525m
Service ceiling 9500ft/2895m
Height feet inches
Length feet inches
Width 5 feet/1.524m
Redback Aviation :: Home Built Helicopters Sidebar Divider

Enabling translate option
may distort page layout

Redback Aviation :: Home Built Helicopters Sidebar Divider
Redback Aviation :: Home Built Helicopters Sidebar Divider

 

The ultimative 100% automated Forex Money Machine!
This Leads Nowhere Helicopter Menu Image Back To Top Of Helicopter Page Image