The resulting VZ-9 first flew in 1959. Resembling a small flying saucer, the Avrocar was only 18 feet in diameter, only half the wingspan of a Cessna 172. Despite its small size, it was equipped with ...

An overhead view of the Avrocar, showing the dorsal intake and main fan. [Courtesy: U.S. Air Force] The resulting VZ-9 first flew in 1959. Resembling a small flying saucer, the Avrocar was only 18 ...