Definition of Rotary-wing aircraft

Rotorcraft is a category of heavier-than-air flying machines that use lift generated by wings that revolve around a mast called rotor blades. Several rotor blades mounted to a single mast is referred to as a rotor. Rotorcraft may also include the use of static lifting surfaces, but the primary distinguishing feature being lift provided by one or more rotors. Rotorcraft include helicopters, autogyros, gyrodynes and tiltrotors. A qualified applicant receives a pilot license in the category of rotorcraft, with a class rating for either helicopter or gyrocopter, depending on which aircraft is to be flown. Tiltrotors, while using rotors and principles that govern flight of rotorcraft, are classified by the United States Federal Aviation Administration as powered lift aircraft.