Report of Evaluation of the Kellett KD-1A Autogyro
Abstract
The Kellett KD-1A was evaluated at Kellett Aircraft Corporation, Willowgrove, Pa. Flight maneuvers to include takeoffs, landings (power-on and power-off), climbs, descents, steep turns, and slow flight were performed during the 3 and 1/4 hour flight test. The performance, flight characteristics, and handling qualities of the machine were evaluated. Kellett has proposed "A New Observation and Liaison Aircraft" utilizing autogyro principles. On 28 May 1959, Kellett held a symposium at Willow Grove to familiarize interested agencies with the autogyro concept and to demonstrate the Model KD-1A Autogyro. Board personnel attending this symposium considered that further Army evaluation was warranted. The KD-1A Autogyro has been rebuilt from old parts and, in order to avoid recertification, was not modernized during rebuild. The basic aircraft design is dated 1928. The aircraft is presently flying on a CAA Type certificate issued in 1941. A jump-takeoff feature is proposed for future autogyros but was not incorporated in the KD-1A.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 03, 1959
- Accession Number
- ADA030552