WASHINGTON – A group of undergrads at the University of Maryland may be setting a new record for a human-powered helicopter they designed.

The team that built the Gamera II quadrocopter already holds the National Aeronautic Association U.S. record for flying the chopper for 49.9 seconds. Now it may have an altitude record as well.

As freshman pilot Henry Enerson spun the cranks of the Gamera II, the four-rotor design ascended to eight feet.

They say the new altitude was unexpected and puts them in contention for the $250,000 Sikorsky Prize.

To win, the team must reach a 10-foot altitude and maintain it for one minute.

Watch a video below of Enerson reaching the eight-foot record:

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