Found it!

The original toy was the Mattel Vertibird.

The PC sim can be found at:

http://www.peterhirschberg.com/vertisim/

Well, there goes my night... ;^}

Bob ^,,^


On Sat, 07 Aug 2010 23:15:54 -0700, "Bob (not my real pseudonym)"
wrote:

On Sat, 7 Aug 2010 06:51:47 -0500, "Dr.Smith"
wrote:


"Clairbear" wrote in message
.. .
"Neil Hoskins" wrote in
:




How about Willy-Whirlybird

Hey what was that toy helicopter that was a big seller in the 1970's that
flew around in circles on a long rod and had the wired remote that allowed
you to control height and forward/reverse speed? The operator could hover
and pick up 'loads' and fly around to a different part of the circuit and
drop stuff off. I had the shipped based one that had like a 5 foot
styrofoam ship. That thing was cool. I go to many estates sales and if I
ever see another I buying it. I am 43 and would not mind spending a few
minutes with one again.

Wasn't it just called "Whirlybird"? Had one in my yoot. Wish I still
did. Same folks did a biplane that could do "real loops!"

I can't seem to find it right now, but there was a really good virtual
simulation of the helicopter toy released for the PC some years ago by
someone who also loved the original.

Bob ^,,^