How does a helicopter work?

Structure, control, aerodynamics and technology simply explained

Anyone who sees a helicopter in the sky or has flown on a helicopter flight in Switzerland quickly asks themselves the question: How does a helicopter actually work?

Unlike airplanes, helicopters can take off vertically, hover in place, and maneuver in tight spaces. But what's the technical side of this? In this article – based on the information page of helikopterflug.ch – we'll explain the structure, control, and aerodynamics of helicopters step by step (more information) .

🔧 Construction of a helicopter

A modern helicopter consists of several central components:

• Main rotor: provides lift – comparable to aircraft wings.
• Tail rotor: balances the torque and ensures stability.
• Cockpit & Controls: with Cyclic, Collective and pedals for precise control.
• Engine & landing gear: for propulsion, takeoff and landing.

Without a functioning tail rotor, the helicopter would rotate uncontrollably around its own axis – therefore it is essential for flight stability.

🎮 Helicopter control: Cyclic, Collective & Pedals

1. Cyclic (joint)

Controls the flight direction. Front = forward, back = backward, side = sideways.

2. Collective (blade adjustment lever)

Changes the angle of attack of the rotor blades = more or less lift = climb or descend.

3. Pedals

Control the tail rotor – and thus the rotation of the helicopter around the vertical axis.

Note: Helicopter control requires constant counter-steering – especially when hovering or landing.

🌀 Aerodynamics: How does lift occur in a helicopter?

Due to their special shape, the rotor blades generate pressure differences – similar to those of airfoils. This creates lift.

During forward flight, an asymmetry arises between the leading and trailing blades. This is compensated for by so-called flapping joints, thus maintaining a stable flight attitude.

🛬 Safety through autorotation

What happens if an engine fails? The helicopter enters what's known as autorotation : Air flows from below through the rotor, causing it to continue rotating – even without propulsion.

This allows the pilot to land the helicopter safely – for example, during sightseeing flights or rescue missions.

📚 Conclusion: Helicopter technology that inspires

A helicopter is a highly complex aircraft—but that's precisely what makes it so fascinating. Whether for various helicopter types or for private sightseeing flights—the technology behind it is pure precision.

If you would like to experience for yourself what it is like to fly a helicopter or see the world from a bird's eye view, you can find all the information about sightseeing flights, events and the possibility of even flying a helicopter yourself in Switzerland at helikopterflug.ch .