Fw 61

The Focke‑Wulf Fw 61, first flown in 1936, is widely regarded as the world’s first fully functional, controllable helicopter. Designed by Heinrich Focke and Georg Wulf, the aircraft emerged from the experimental work of Focke‑Aachen’s earlier rotary‑wing prototypes. Its twin‑rotor layout, with two counter‑rotating rotors mounted on either side of the fuselage, eliminated the need for a tail rotor and provided inherent torque balance. Power was supplied by a 160 hp Bramo radial engine mounted centrally, driving both rotors through a complex transmission system. The open‑frame cockpit offered limited instrumentation, yet the aircraft demonstrated stable hover, forward flight, and even a recorded 500‑kilometre cross‑country journey in 1938.

Although only three examples were built, the Fw 61 proved that rotary‑wing flight could be practical and reliable. Its successes directly influenced later German designs such as the Focke‑Achgelis Fa 61 and laid foundational concepts for post‑war helicopters worldwide. By achieving controlled vertical take‑off, sustained hover, and forward speed, the Fw 61 secured its place as a pivotal milestone in the transition from experimental rigs to operational rotorcraft. Today a restored example is displayed at the Deutsches Museum in Munich, where visitors can appreciate the engineering ingenuity that set the stage for modern vertical‑flight aircraft.

Focke-Wulf

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