Here are the answers to frequently asked questions about the LAF-01 project:

1- Why the tandem rotor configuration?

Tandem helicopters have some advantages over the tail-rotor helicopters:

• The torque-balancing task is done automatically by the opposite-turning rotors;
• The lift can be unevenly distributed between the aft and forward rotors, thereby handling a wide range of CG locations;
• The high moment of inertia about the vertical axis makes tandem helicopters insensitive to gusty winds.
• All the engine power goes for lifting. No power is wasted in the tail rotor.

Thus, the tandem configuration makes a more stable and a more work-oriented helicopter. This is why the LAF-01 has a sport-utility vocation. It can be used for recreational purposes as well as for work. It has huge luggage compartments (30 ft³) and useful load (1000 lbs).

2- Has it flown yet?

No, the LAF-01 is still at the developement stage. Ground tests are going well. Test flights are coming soon.

3- What license does it take to pilot this helicopter?

Any helicopter pilot license (recreational, private or commercial).

4- What is the cruise speed, hover ceiling, fuel consumption, dimensions, etc ?

The answers are in the specifications webpage.

5- Why do you use two blade rotors?

The semi-rigid rotor with two blades is the best configuration for tandem helicopters. It reduces stress on the blades and the fuselage. Furthermore, it eliminates the possibility of ground resonance.

6- What engine make, model and horsepower the LAF-01 uses ?

Our prototypes are powered by Cadillac Northstar 300HP engines. But our next prototypes and the production helicopters will be powered by the Chevrolet Corvette LS6 405HP engines.

7- Why do you use an automotive engine?

The main reason is because of the lower price of automotive engines. Another reason is because we do not need the low RPM or air-cooling of aircraft engines. But it will possible to use a certified engine as well.

8- Is there a governor?

Yes, the electronic governor is designed to keep the engine RPM constant and thus reduces the pilot workload.

9- Who makes the blades for the LAF-01 ?

We are proud to say that we make our own blades. We’ve been developing our blades for over 10 years now and the quality is comparable to any certified helicopter makes in the world.

10- From what material is the fuselage made ?

The fuselage is made of composites and weights 200 pounds. The fuselage has different panels giving easy access to the major components of the helicopter.

11-Why don't yout widen the body and make it a 4 place?

For now, the objective is to complete the 2 place version of the LAF-01. In the future, we plan to develop the 4 seater but this is a long term project. Furthermore, amateur-built aircraft are limited to only one passenger in Canada. (CAR 549.205).

12-What is the kit price and what does it include?

The cost for the kit is 100 000$ USD. It includes the fuselage, blades, rotors, transmissions, swash plates, landing gear, transer case, seats. It does not include: the engine, driveshafts, avionics, governor, controls, paint.

13- Are there are a lot of adders before it’s ready to fly ? What is the full extend of probable cash requirements ?

The kit version will be around 100 000$ USD and should not exceed 125 000$ USD completed, depending on engine choice and how much work you do yourself. Adders mainly consists of engine, transmission, differentials and engine wire harness which will be available through us or from recommended retailers like “AIRCRAFT SPRUCE & SPECIALTY CO.” or "WAG-AERO".

14- Is it ”low tech” enough for me to build one?

Our helicopter is made of simple parts. The complicated systems are already assembled. Composites parts like the fuselage, walls and blades are already assembled and included in the kit. Assembling a LAF-01 requires more time and precise work than technical knowledge.

15- When will the first helicopters be available on the market ?

The first kits should be delivered on summer 2005.

16- How difficult, how much hours and what equipment is required to build a LAF-01 ?

Assembly of the helicopter is neither very easy nor very hard. It is designed for the homebuilt market. The number of hours involved to build the machine is estimated at 900 for someone who’s never done it before. The equipment needed are common hand tools and patience. Most complicated systems like differentials and transmissions don’t require assembly cause they come from the automotive market, so the kit consists more in assembly than fabrication.

17- Can I buy a fully assembled version of the LAF-01?

No. Under TC/FAA regulations, individuals must build at least 51 percent of the aircraft to be able to register it in the Amateur-Built/Homebuilt Category.

© Laflamme Helicopters 2004