Vertical Mobility

With an eye to the fluid conditions of atomic warfare, the Army last week bought twelve experimental models of the Aerocycle, a one-man flying machine designed to give the infantryman more mobility than he has ever had before. Built by De Lackner Helicopters, Inc., the 200-Ib. Aerocycle is equipped with helicopter blades and powered by a 44-h.p. outboard motor mounted above pontoons which enable the pilot to set his craft down on land or water. The Aerocycle can carry 300 Ibs., has a maximum speed of 65 m.p.h. and a 150-mile range. The infantryman standing on its small platform controls vertical motion and speed with motorcycle-type handlebars, guides the direction of flight by leaning in the direction he wants to go. The Army is also negotiating with Hiller Helicopters, Inc. for some Flying Carpets (TIME, April 18), which use a ducted air fan rather than helicopter blades for propulsion.

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