Rotary wing aircraft have some specific properties that make them suitable, even essential, for a wide range of missions. However, they are hampered by certain aspects mainly linked to the aircraft itself which researchers are endeavouring to correct. Dossier no.44 describes the mainly technical solutions that would enable helicopters to increase their share of the passenger transport market. After highlighting a complex set of issues facing passenger transport by rotorcraft, it raises the possibility of an evolution capable of generating new growth.