While both helicopters and airplanes share the same general purpose of air travel, helicopters are unique. Unlike other aircraft, they can operate in close quarters and move in any direction: forward, backward, up, down, left, and right. Additionally, helicopters can take off and land vertically as well as fly or hover close to the ground.
Due to the complexity of operating the machines and the variety of maneuvers they can achieve, helicopter pilots require extensive training and preparation to earn a license. If even a minor issue arises, helicopters can easily malfunction.