The Mirocopter SCH-2A is a compact, ultralight helicopter designed to operate under the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Part 103 ultralight rules. Weighing in at just 249 pounds empty, it falls precisely within the threshold that allows it to be flown in the U.S. without a pilot’s license or medical certification—assuming it remains within all other Part 103 limits, such as fuel capacity and speed.
The SCH-2A is built for solo recreational flight and features a twin-rotor coaxial design, meaning the rotors spin in opposite directions on the same vertical axis. This eliminates the need for a tail rotor, a component typically required in conventional helicopters to counteract torque. According to the manufacturer, this design makes the aircraft mechanically simpler and more compact.
The aircraft is powered by a 60-horsepower engine and runs on standard unleaded gasoline. It can cruise at approximately 50 miles per hour and offers a flight duration of about one hour on a 4.5-gallon fuel tank. The modest fuel requirement contributes to its compliance with ultralight restrictions and keeps the overall weight within the permissible limit.
The Mirocopter company, which produces the SCH-2A, states on its website that it is “compliant with US FAR Part 103 Ultralight Vehicle rules.” That compliance is a significant point for potential hobbyists, as it means the helicopter can be operated without traditional pilot training, though informal instruction is still highly recommended.
Reactions online have ranged from enthusiasm to skepticism. Some users admire the accessibility of such a lightweight aircraft, while others have questioned its perceived safety. A few commenters have compared it humorously to cartoon contraptions, calling it “an Acme helicopter” or “a blender with wings,” while others have joked that they’d “take their chances with a bobcat in a phone booth” instead of flying it.
Despite the mixed reactions, the SCH-2A presents an interesting option for aviation enthusiasts looking for a stripped-down, personal flight experience. There is no official pricing listed on the manufacturer’s website at the time of writing. Interested users should contact Mirocopter directly for availability and purchase inquiries.
Source: Mirocopter
