Aircraft overview

The CH-7 Heli-Sport Kompress is a single-seat light helicopter produced by Heli-Sport in Italy for the kit-built and experimental aircraft market. It belongs to the very light personal helicopter category, with a compact airframe, skid landing gear and a conventional main rotor with tail rotor layout. The Kompress is distinct from the later CH-77 Ranabot and other two-seat Heli-Sport models: it is intended primarily for solo recreational flying, owner operation and hands-on maintenance. Its importance in the used market comes from its combination of helicopter capability, relatively simple systems and Rotax piston power in an aircraft small enough to appeal to private owners who do not need multi-seat utility.

Performance & specifications

Typical published data for the CH-7 Heli-Sport Kompress includes cruise speeds in the region of 80 knots, with range dependent on fuel fit, pilot weight and operating profile. The aircraft is commonly associated with a Rotax 914 UL turbocharged four-cylinder engine, rated at 115 hp for takeoff, driving a two-blade main rotor through a reduction and transmission system. Maximum takeoff weight is generally listed around 450 kg, or about 990 lb, with useful load dependent on the individual kit build, installed equipment and national operating limits. Service ceiling figures vary by source and configuration, so buyers should rely on the aircraft’s specific flight manual and build documentation rather than generic brochure numbers.

Cabin & avionics

The Kompress has a one-place cockpit with a compact bubble canopy and a pilot-focused layout. Visibility is a notable design feature, but cabin space, storage and weather protection are limited compared with certified training helicopters. Avionics are usually basic VFR equipment rather than integrated glass cockpits such as Garmin Perspective or G1000, which are not typical for this model. Common installations include analog engine and rotor instruments, airspeed and altimeter, magnetic compass, radio and, where required, a transponder. Some aircraft may have been updated with lightweight EFIS displays, GPS units, engine monitors or modern radios, but equipment varies widely because most examples were completed by individual builders.

Buying & value

Used CH-7 Heli-Sport Kompress aircraft should be evaluated primarily on build quality, documentation and maintenance history. Important review points include kit completion records, engine logs, rotor blade condition, gearbox and transmission inspections, belt or drive system condition, vibration history, service bulletin compliance and evidence of proper rigging. Because the aircraft is not a standard certified production helicopter, local registration category, permitted operations and maintenance privileges matter as much as the purchase price. Upgrades may include newer avionics, improved engine monitoring, radio and transponder changes, or detail improvements to cooling and instrumentation. In the used market, the Kompress is typically positioned as a compact personal helicopter for experienced owner-pilots, priced below larger certified helicopters but requiring careful technical due diligence.