The history of helicopters is a story of innovation, persistence, and gradual evolution. Here’s a chronological overview of the significant milestones in the helicopter industry:

1. Early Concepts (pre-20th century): Ancient Chinese toys and designs by Renaissance polymaths, like Leonardo da Vinci’s “aerial screw,” hinted at vertical flight, although practical application was centuries away.
2. Paul Cornu’s Helicopter (1907): French inventor Paul Cornu achieved the first free flight of a helicopter. However, the design lacked stability and control.
3. Juan de la Cierva’s Autogiro (1923): Spanish engineer Juan de la Cierva developed the autogiro, which had a rotating wing (rotor) but wasn’t a true helicopter as its lift was primarily generated by its wings.
4. Heinrich Focke’s Fa 61 (1936): German aviation pioneer Heinrich Focke developed the Fa 61, the world’s first practical helicopter. Test pilot Hanna Reitsch famously flew it inside the Berlin Deutschlandhalle in 1938.
5. Sikorsky’s VS-300 and R-4 (1939-1944): Igor Sikorsky, an American immigrant from Russia, developed the VS-300, which became the basis for the R-4, the world’s first production helicopter. The R-4 was used during WWII for reconnaissance and search and rescue missions.
6. Bell 47 (1946): Introduced by Bell Helicopter Company, the Bell 47 became the first helicopter to receive a civil certification from the Civil Aeronautics Administration (the precursor to the FAA). Its distinctive bubble canopy became an iconic image of helicopters in the 20th century.
7. Helicopters in the Korean War (1950-1953): Helicopters, primarily the Bell H-13 Sioux, played a crucial role in medical evacuation (Medevac) missions during the Korean War, saving countless lives.
8. Turbine-Powered Helicopters (1950s): The introduction of turbine engines provided helicopters with more power and efficiency. The Bell UH-1 “Huey”, powered by a turbine engine, became symbolic of the Vietnam War.
9. Attack Helicopters (1970s): The development and evolution of helicopters specifically designed for attack roles, like the AH-1 Cobra and later the AH-64 Apache, shifted military tactics and strategies.
10. Notable Civilian Models (1980s-2000s): Helicopters such as the Eurocopter (now Airbus) EC135 and Sikorsky S-92 were introduced, serving various roles in industries ranging from medical services to offshore oil operations.
11. Advanced Systems and Designs (2000s-Present): Modern helicopters feature advanced materials, fly-by-wire systems, and sophisticated avionics. Military models, such as the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft, blur the line between helicopters and airplanes.
12. Electric and Hybrid Propulsion (21st century): The industry is exploring electric and hybrid propulsion systems for more sustainable and efficient operations.

The helicopter industry’s journey has been marked by both successes and challenges. Still, its evolution underscores the critical role that helicopters play in diverse areas from combat and rescue operations to commercial transportation and private use.

We have a wide selection of both civilian and military models to choose from famous helicopter manufacturers such as Aerospatiale, Bell, Airbus Eurocopter, Agusta, Boeing Rotorcraft, Brantly International, Enstrom, Higgins, Hughes, Hiller, Kaman, Lancair, MD, NH Industries, Piasecki, Robinson, Schweizer, Shawnee, Sikorsky and Westland. Helicopter models dating back to the WW II, the Vietnam and Korean War and until the very present are all available. Every wooden scale helicopter model is handcrafted to the most perfect of detail – they are much more than simple model – they are works of art!

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