How did they invent helicopters? artwork
Episode 413 13 min

How did they invent helicopters?

Published on October 10, 2026

Available on all major platforms

About This Episode

Look up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No, it’s a spinning, hovering, backward-flying machine! Have you ever wondered how helicopters were invented? For hundreds of years, humans dreamed of a flying machine that could hover in mid-air like a hummingbird and land safely anywhere. Even the famous artist Leonardo da Vinci drew a sketch of a giant flying screw over 500 years ago! But how did we get from those drawings to real-life rescues? Join Mira and Finn on an incredible high-flying adventure as they explore the wild history of the helicopter! You will discover a heavy 1907 "flying bicycle" that only lifted one foot off the ground. Then, meet the brilliant inventor Igor Sikorsky, who tested his amazing new flying machine while wearing a fancy business suit and a fedora hat! Learn how the genius tail rotor stopped the helicopter from spinning like a crazy carnival ride, and hear the thrilling story of the very first helicopter rescue during a massive winter storm in 1945! Plus, find out how fast a helicopter can fly and why you should watch out for hurricane-force winds when one lands! Strap in and get ready for takeoff!

What You'll Learn

  • Helicopters
  • Igor sikorsky
  • Leonardo da vinci
  • Aviation history
  • Inventions
Mira Finn

Join Mira and Finn as they explore the fascinating world of helicopters!

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