Registration: G-AZAU
Country of origin: UK
Built: Redhill, Surrey, UK, 1970
Manufacturer: Cierva Rotorcraft
Constructor's Number: GB-3
Engine: Two 210hp Continental IO-360-D engines
Type: Experimental 5 seat coxial helicopter
Note: This is the 3rd pre-production Grasshopper III built.
Details: The Grasshopper III had two engines, advanced composite construction and coaxial main rotors requiring no tail rotor. The fuselage was an early example of modular, composite construction.
Only three Grasshopper III helicopters were built (G-AWRP, G-AXFM and G-AZAU) and all are here at the Helicopter Museum. The first G-AWRP has been restored and is on display in the Musuem. G-AZAU was the 3rd pre-production machine which has a more powerfull 210hp engines.
Development was eventually abandoned in 1975 due to lack of further financial backing.