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Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of fuel does the WASP
use?
- Do I need a license to fly the
WASP?
- Can pontoons be used on the
WASP?
- Will you sell the
WASP fully assembled?
- What will be included in the kit?
- How long will it take to build the
WASP?
- Has anyone else built a
turbine-powered kit helicopter?
- Does the WASP meet FAA
certification standards?
- How does it feel to fly the WASP
turbine-powered
helicopter?
- What happens if the engine quits?
- What are the advantages of a
turbine engine?
- How far can the WASP fly?
- How fast can the WASP fly?
- How high can the WASP fly?
- How much does the WASP kit cost?
The WASP uses Jet-A for its
turboshaft engines.
Yes, to legally operate the WASP
requires a private rotorcraft license.
Yes, pontoons will be available for
operation from the water. They will, however, reduce overall performance.
No, the helicopter will be sold only in kit
form.
The WASP kit will be available in 3
parts: 1) powerplant, 2) fuselage, and 3) dynamic components. The parts can be
purchased separately.
The kit is designed for the amateur builder. In addition to a comprehensible
construction manual, factory assistance will be available by phone. It is
expected to take 350 man-hours to completely assemble the WASP. A
builder-assist plan is also being formulated.
Yes, the Helicycle designed by B.J. Schramm.
Since the kit builder is the manufacturer,
he must meet the standards for an Experimental aircraft.
It feels no different than any other small
helicopter except for the very low vibration levels.
The WASP will autorotate like any other
helicopter. The entry into and exit from
autorotation is made much easier because of the high-inertia rotor system.
The turbine engine will deliver power at
higher torque, will have lower vibration levels, and will have better starting
characteristics than a reciprocating engine. The U.S. military specifies turbine
power for its helicopters because they are more reliable than reciprocating
engines.
The WASP can fly approximately 160 miles
with no resserve.
The WASP top speed is estimated to be 113
mph.
The service ceiling for the WASP is currently estimated to be 8,000 feet.
The introductory price of a WASP kit is approximately $70,000.
 
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