What percentage of total lifting force does the tail rotor provide in a hover?

The tail rotor of a helicopter plays a critical role in countering the torque produced by the main rotor. During a hover, the main rotor provides the necessary lift to keep the helicopter airborne, while the tail rotor is essential for maintaining directional control and stability.

In a typical helicopter, the tail rotor generates a small percentage of the total lifting force, as its primary function is to counteract the main rotor's torque rather than contribute significantly to lift. For most helicopters, including the MH-60S, the tail rotor's contribution to the total lifting force while hovering is approximately 2.5%. This value emphasizes the importance of the tail rotor in creating a balanced flight condition and allowing the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft during hover maneuvers.

Understanding the dynamics of how the tail rotor works in conjunction with the main rotor is crucial for any Plane Captain, as it directly influences aircraft handling and safety. Therefore, the correct choice reflects an accurate understanding of the aerodynamic principles at play in helicopter flight.