Leonardo da Vinci’s proposed rotating aerial device is known as the aerial screw.
Leonardo drew the aerial screw around 1489. The design shows a large helical rotor made from a reed-like framework covered with linen. He suggested that if the screw rotated rapidly, its helical surface could push against the air and lift the machine.
The aerial screw is frequently described as an early helicopter concept, but it was not a working helicopter. Leonardo’s design lacked a practical power source capable of turning the rotor fast enough. Modern helicopters also depend on carefully shaped rotor blades, engine power, control systems, and a lightweight structure.
The drawing remains important because it shows Leonardo thinking about vertical flight rather than only gliding or flapping wings. The idea may have been influenced by the Chinese flying top, although the historical connection is not proven. Aerial-screw replicas are useful demonstrations, but they should not be mistaken for evidence that Leonardo built a successful flying machine.