Quote:
Originally Posted by HHI944
(Post 9505965)
I don't fly, I just reluctantly ride in them from time to time. What is the point of NOTAR supposed to be?
The first time I saw it flying, I thought the pilot was just a little *****, then I found out that it hurts maneuverability. It was weird, I'm not used to seeing little birds flying in a calm manner....
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The biggest reason for the NOTAR was eliminating the tail rotor, mostly for safety's sake. While it doesn't happen often pilots stick them into bushes and trees. Sometimes when hovering in tight quarters it can be difficult to know what's behind you, especially at night. People on the ground have also inadvertently walked into them. It was supposed to be more efficient too. (it didn't turn out that way).
One of the noisiest things on a helicopter is the tail rotor (some more or less so). The NOTOR is much quieter but McDonnell Douglas also made a four bladed tail rotor that was very quiet.
I think the concept is great. Anything to increase safety and decrease noise is a good thing. It just didn't really catch on. I've never flown one (or a regular 500) but wouldn't mind trying it.
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