Photo by Peter Bakema

This odd shape aaircraft was designed for low-speed observation work, and intended as a low-cost alternative to helicopters. Only 22 were produced.

The Edgley EA-7 Optica is a British light aircraft designed for low-speed observation work, and intended as a low-cost alternative to helicopters. Apparently 22 were built.

The Optica first flew in 1979 with the unusual ducted fan pusher propellor which makes it very quiet in operation. It has excellent low speed characteristics and superb all round visibility making it a cheaper alternative to helicopters for surveillance operations such as Police work. It is hoped that these may soon re-enter production

This was a strange aircraft type with a ducted fan pusher propellor. It was capable of very low speed flight and thus making it a considerably cheaper option to helicopters for surveillance work. This example was used by the Police in Northern Ireland