Rotorway Exec 162F

The experimental kit helicopter built for affordable private ownership

Overview

Rotorway United States 1994–2011 $70,000

The Rotorway Exec 162F is a kit-built helicopter designed for amateur construction. Developed for the experimental aviation community, it offered incremental improvements over earlier Rotorway models. The aircraft targets private pilots seeking rotary-wing ownership at lower cost.

Specifications

Units
Engine
1 × Rotorway RI 162F
Engine type
Piston
Power
150 hp · 112 kW
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
2
Crew
—
Cabin width
3 ft 7 in  ·  1.10 m
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
29 ft 6 in  ·  9.00 m
Tail height
6 ft 11 in  ·  2.10 m
Fuselage diameter
3 ft 7 in  ·  1.10 m
Wing span
24 ft 11 in  ·  7.60 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
1,500 lb  ·  700 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
450 lb  ·  200 kg
Fuel capacity
20 gal · 100 L · 0 kg (AvGas)
Max cruise speed
100 kt  ·  115 mph  ·  185 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
157 nm  ·  180 mi  ·  290 km
Fuel burn
9.21 nm/gal  ·  4.51 km/L
Ceiling
10,000 ft  ·  3,000 m
Rate of climb
1,000 ft/min  ·  5 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Rotorway Executive 162F ‘G-NJBA’

Operational Context

Rotorway Exec 162F — experimental piston kit helicopter

Rotorway introduced the Exec 162F as an evolution of its earlier Exec series, incorporating aerodynamic refinements and upgraded mechanical systems. Sold as a kit, the helicopter must be assembled by the owner under experimental category regulations. The design reflects Rotorway’s long-standing focus on homebuilt rotary-wing aircraft.

The Exec 162F is powered by a proprietary piston engine producing roughly 150 horsepower. It cruises at around 90 to 100 knots (165 to 185 km/h) and has a maximum takeoff weight near 1,500 pounds (680 kg). The two-blade rotor system emphasizes mechanical simplicity and reduced cost.

While not certified for commercial operations, the Exec 162F provides private owners with hands-on construction experience and operational flexibility. Rotorway’s kit helicopters remain among the most visible in the experimental helicopter segment. The 162F represents a mature stage in the company’s piston-powered lineup.