Longest-duration human-powered helicopter flight (FAI-approved)

On 25 September 2013, Justin Mauch (USA) achieved the longest-duration flight in a human-powered helicopter by staying aloft in the Gamera II experimental helicopter, built by the University of Maryland, USA, for 1 minute 37.5 seconds – as ratified by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI). The flight took place in the Prince George's County Sports and Learning Complex in Landover, Maryland.

Gamera II is a four-rotor helicopter weighing just 37 kg (82 lb).

Each rotor is 14.4 metres (47 feet) in diameter – these large yet lightweight rotors develop significant lift from the relatively low rotation rate that a human being can produce.

The helicopter is powered by both foot and hand pedals, which the operator cranks at 95 rpm, generating a rotor speed of around 20 rpm.

Power is transferred from the "engine" to the rotors via a very long pull-cord (similar to those used to start a petrol lawnmower), as this is lighter than a continuous belt or chain drive.

The helicopter hovers approximately a metre above the ground.