Masumi Yanagisawa Engineering System Type GEN H-4: Smallest Helicopter

The Masumi Yanagisawa Engineering System Type GEN H-4 Helicopter resembles a patio chair with a ceiling fan connected, and it functions similarly to a bicycle in comparison to a pickup truck. For those who have the courage to try it, the Japanese invention is a unique flying machine. The world's smallest helicopter was developed in the 1990s by Gennai Yanigasawa, the CEO of an electronics firm. Its rotor span of 12.8 feet makes it the shortest of all helicopters, and it weighs only 165 pounds, making it the lightest of all helicopters.

Despite its small size, the device is highly advanced. The coaxial design of the machine eliminates the issue of torque and counter-rotation. The machine contains two counter-rotating rotors comparable to a beginner's remote controlled helicopter in place of a tail rotor, which is impractical to attach because to the absence of any tail boom.

The device is not very sluggish either. The helicopter can achieve speeds of 56 mph and maintain altitude for 30 minutes at a time. Perched atop this device, you could actually be able to travel. The tripod landing gear, seat, and rotor hub give the impression that a small UFO is carrying a human rider when the rotor blades are rotating.

Manufacturer: Masumi Yanagisawa Engineering System
Type: GEN H-4 Helicopter
Introduced: 1/1/1997