Something “pretty rare and different” is on its way to a museum

The Hickory Aviation Museum has confirmed that it’s adding something “pretty rare and very different” to its growing collection – a Gyrodyne YRON-1 Rotorcycle serial ‘4013’.

“Ten Rotorcycle prototypes were built for the US Navy in the 1950s for use by the USMC in observation, liaison, and small unit tactical manoeuvres,” a spokesperson stated. “It could also be air dropped to downed aviators in hostile territory. Although it is pristine and complete with rotor blades, we have a few things to do before we put it on display.”

During operational testing, the single-seat lightweight helicopter was found to be too heavy and difficult to fly, resulting in the programme being cancelled. The unusual machine is on loan to the North Carolina-based attraction from Pensacola, Florida’s National Naval Aviation Museum.