01 Gyrocopter Familiarisation

This exercise is designed to provide a student with their first experience in a gyroplane, minimising instruction while setting a positive foundation for future learning. The goal is to familiarise the student with the aircraft and the feeling of flight, fostering a sense of accomplishment and encouraging their interest in learning to fly.

Begin by taking the student to the gyroplane and pointing out the key components, e.g. flight controls, fuel tanks, rotor system, engine, propeller and tail section.

Next, have the student sit in the pilot's seat and briefly explain the cockpit layout, emphasising the importance of using checklists and drills from the start.

Keep explanations simple, avoiding technical jargon. Focus on the excitement of the experience and reassure the student that complex procedures will become easier with practice.

Aim

To familiarise the student with the aircraft, its controls and systems, and to introduce basic drills, checklists, ground procedures, and the sensations of flight.

Airmanship

Explain:

• How to safely approach and leave a gyroplane.
• The importance of seat belts/harnesses being secured at all times.
• Demonstrate positive handover/takeover of controls (“You have control / I have control”).
• The need for a constant, effective lookout—introduce the clock-code method for identifying traffic.
• Appropriate clothing, considering weather, exposure, and open-cockpit types (if applicable).
• Basic expectations around tarmac behaviour, aircraft movement areas, and instructor-led communications with ATC (if operating from a controlled aerodrome).