Origins & Early Life

Paul Cornu (French pronunciation: [pɔl kɔʁny]; 15 June 1881 – 6 June 1944) was a French engineer. Paul Cornu was born in Glos-la-Ferrière, France and was one of thirteen children. At a young age, he helped his father in his transports company. He made history by designing the world's first successful manned rotary wing aircraft.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

Cornu first built an unmanned experimental design powered by a 2 hp Buchet engine. His manned helicopter was powered by a 24 horsepower (18 kW) Antoinette engine. He piloted this construction himself in Normandy, France on 13 November 1907. Previously, a French helicopter, the Breguet-Richet Gyroplane I, had managed to lift off under its own power, but it had been held in position by men standing on the ground. Cornu's performance was a considerable progress because his aircraft flew without additional support and lifted Cornu about 30 cm (1 ft) for 20 seconds.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Unfortunately this early helicopter was scarcely maneuverable and had only a few additional flights. The construction was not much further developed by this technical pioneer, who had to keep on making a living by manufacturing bicycles. In 1944 Paul Cornu was killed in Lisieux...

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

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