Rotorcraft Flying Handbook

FAA-H-8083-21

This is the successor to the Basic Helicopter Handbook which was last updated in 1978. Written for the applicant preparing for the private, commercial, or flight instructor certificate or gyroplane class rating, the book is also valuable to flight instructors as a teaching aid. Both aeronautical knowledge and skills for operating rotorcraft are covered.

The book is presented in two sections: the first dedicated to helicopters (with powered rotors) and the second dedicated to gyroplanes (with freely rotating rotors). Each section includes chapters covering aerodynamics, flight controls, systems, the rotorcraft flight manual, flight maneuvers, emergencies, and aeronautical decision-making. In addition, the helicopter section includes chapters on weight & balance, performance, attitude instrument flying, and night operations. The book concludes with a comprehensive glossary and index.

This book replaces the Basic Helicpter Handbook and is the official source for all rotorcraft questions appearing on FAA exams.