Gyrocopter in flight. Gyrocopter being used to follow Cape cormorants (Phalacrocorax capensis) as part of conservation efforts. A gyrocopter, also known as an autogyro, gyroplane or rotaplane, is a type of rotorcraft that uses an un-powered rotor in autorotation to develop lift, and an engine-powered propeller, similar to that of a fixed-wing aircraft, to provide thrust. Photographed in the Western Cape, South Africa.