Combining the visibility of a helicopter with outstanding slow-flying capabilities, the original concept for the Edgley EA7 Optica was as a three-seat touring aircraft. Designer John Edgley, at that time began the final aerodynamic design in 1974. The first flight was made on 14 December 1979. The engine drives a five-bladed fixed-pitch ducted fan, and the Optica is thought to be the world’s quietest powered aircraft. Mounting the whole cockpit assembly ahead of the fan and engine gives the pilot and passengers 270° panoramic vision, plus almost vertical downward vision; the cockpit canopy design allows photography through the panels. Its internal cabin permits three-abreast seating, while baggage space and positions for mounting specialized observation equipment are provided behind the seats and in the unrestricted floor area in front of the two passenger seats. Roles for the Optica are virtually unlimited, from the obvious aerial photography and surveillance patrols to traffic reporting, powerline inspection etc. and it has the ability to perform much of a helicopter’s work with fixed-wing economy and range.