The Pitts Sky Car, designed by John W. Pitts in the 1920s, was an experimental vertical take-off aircraft intended to function like a helicopter. It featured a unique "mushroom-shaped" rotor with 60 hinged blades to generate lift. Despite attempts in 1928, the prototype only bounced on the ground, failing to achieve sustained flight. Though unsuccessful, it is recognized as an early precursor to modern VTOL technology. | GIGadgets