WEIR W.5 - Single-seat
helicopter built as private venture by G & J Weir, which had previously
built four prototype autogyros based on Cierva principles. Featured side-by-si'de
two-bladed rotor configuration (inspired by Focke work in Germany) and
a 50 hp Weir Pixie engine. First flown at Dalrymple on June 7, 1938 (first
practical British helicopter to fly) and believed to be still extant when
war began, but probably not flown after September 1939. Max speed, 70
mph (112.6 kmlh). Gross weight, 860 Ib (390 kg). Rotor diameter (each),
24ft (7.3 m). Length of fuselage, 16ft (4.9m).
