Project: Mitsubachi

The Mitsubachi (honey bee) project was started in 1988 and is lead by Kouichi Nakamura and Toshio Kataoka.

Based on the articles below we know the following: The configuration is the same as that of "A Day Fly" - 2 contra-rotating coaxial rotors placed under the pilot. Rotor dia = 24 m (78.7 ft). The pilot uses both his legs and arms for power. Power transmission is made through a winch type system using a Kevlar string. The empty weight is 36 kg (79.4 lbs). The flying weight is 93 kg (205.0 lbs). Pilot = 57 kg (125.7 lbs).

• Nakamura, Kouichi; "The Mitsubachi Human Powered Helicopter"; Presented at the Royal Aeronautical Society, January 16th, 1992.
• Nakamura, Kouichi; "Human Powered Aircraft of Japan";  Lecture at the Royal Aeronautical Society, January 16th, 1992.

The status of this project is unknown. Any information would be welcomed.