Helicopters are versatile aircraft that achieve flight through the use of rotating blades or rotors, which generate lift by creating differences in air pressure above and below the blades. Unlike fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters can take off and land vertically, hover in place, and maneuver in confined spaces. This capability allows them to access areas that may be unreachable by other types of vehicles.

Helicopters are used in various applications including transportation, emergency medical services, search and rescue, military operations, law enforcement, agriculture, and aerial photography. They have a complex design that includes components such as the rotor system, tail rotor, and engine, which work together to provide stability and control during flight. The operation of a helicopter requires specialized training, as piloting involves managing the rotor systems and responding to dynamic flight conditions.

Overall, helicopters are significant in both civilian and military contexts, providing essential services and capabilities due to their unique flight characteristics.