Rotorcraft Master Plan
Abstract
Total rotorcraft operations are expected to double over the next 20 years, with air taxi and business operations leading early growth, and intercity commuter operations expanding in the out years. To support that growth will require adequate infrastructure, advanced aircraft technology, and an expanding supply of trained pilots. The tiltrotor, a proven new vertical lift technology, may play a significant role in establishing intercity commuter operations. Tiltrotors could operate between heliport facilities called vertiports, which are more elaborate and somewhat larger than today's average heliport. This technology has the potential to enhance National Airspace System (NAS) capacity at a fraction of the otherwise necessary investment in new or improved commercial airports. This vision is based on an overall strategy of positive action by private industry, the FAA, other Federal agencies, and state and local governments to encourage the expansion of rotorcraft operations both in current applications and in scheduled passenger and cargo markets in the 200-500 nautical mile range. By 2010, rotorcraft could provide as much a 10 percent of intercity passenger operations capacity in the NAS.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA239444
Entities
Organizations
- Federal Aviation Administration