Photo by Jason Bynum

On June 17, 2005, while flight-testing for a U.S. Army contract out of Olney Airport in Texas, the CarterCopter reached μ-1 (Mu-1). This was the first time in history that any rotorcraft had reached μ-1, and marks a milestone in aviation history. (more info)

The CarterCopter Technology Demonstrator was our first prototype. It had been repaired and modified several times during the course of flight testing, and taught us many valuable lessons about what is needed for an aircraft capable of high mu flight. Some of the noteable accomplishments from the flight testing program include:

• First and only aircraft to achieve mu-1
• L/D of 7 @ 170 mph - twice as efficient as best pure (non compound) helicopters
• 150+ flying hours
• 1000+ takeoffs and landings
• Demonstration of zero roll takeoffs & landings
• 10,000 ft altitude
• 173 mph

Measured Flight Data of the CCTD

• CCTD Flight Data and Analysis

Images, Movies, & Specifications of the CCTD

• Image Gallery
• Flight Test Video Clips
• Picture History of CarterCopter Construction
• Illustration with Specifications
• 3-View Drawing
• Assembly Drawing

Performance Projections for Prototype Variations

• Performance Spreadsheet for the CCTD

Flight Simulator Model

• X-Plane Flight Simulator Model

Organization for Sport Aviation Competition

• μ-1 Members' Club

Click on the arrows to rotate the aircraft.