The speed of the air of a hovering helicopter can vary depending on several factors such as altitude, weight, and rotor blade design. On average, the speed of the air beneath a hovering helicopter can range from 15-25 knots.
The speed of the air plays a crucial role in the stability of a hovering helicopter. If the helicopter is moving too fast, it can cause turbulence and make it difficult to maintain a stable hover. On the other hand, if the speed of the air is too slow, the helicopter may lose lift and start to descend.
Yes, the speed of the air can be controlled by adjusting the collective and cyclic controls of the helicopter. The collective control changes the angle of the rotor blades, while the cyclic control changes the angle of the rotor blades as they rotate. Both of these controls affect the speed of the air and can be used to maintain a stable hover.
The speed of the air can greatly impact the fuel efficiency of a hovering helicopter. As the speed increases, the drag on the rotor blades also increases, requiring more power and fuel to maintain the hover. Therefore, hovering at a slower speed can help conserve fuel.
The power required to hover is directly proportional to the speed of the air. As the speed increases, the power required to maintain a stable hover also increases. This is because the helicopter needs to work against the increased drag and resistance of the air at higher speeds.