Bannick Model T Copter 1917 |
Lester J. Bannick developed the Bannick Model T Copter (N9989Z) in 1964. This was a simple open-frame gyrocopter, similar to the Bensen Gyrocopter with a wooden rotor and a pusher 65hp Lycoming engine. It was marketed in the form of plans for home construction. Bannick then completed the prototype of the Bannick Model C Copter which flew in 1967. It used the rotor system of the Model T with a streamlined glass-fibre fuselage incorporating a large tail fin and a 135hp Lycoming engine. No further details of development are known and it is believed that the Model C was eventually abandoned. R.Simpson "Airlife's Helicopter and Rotorcraft", 1998 The Bannick Model T Copter was an American single-seater autogyro of the 1960's supplied in kit form and as plans for amateur construction. The Bannick Model T Copter was powered by a Lycoming four-cylinder horizontally-opposed air-cooled engine providing a top speed of 129km/h.
|