Abstract: An obstacle avoidance system according to the present invention may include an input control device, a sensor suite, and a communication feedback loop. The input control device is preferably operable to create a first force, while the sensor suite is configured to detect nearby obstacles, and the communication feedback loop is in communication with the input control device and the senor suite so that said communication feedback loop is operable to generate a command signal in response to detection of a nearby obstacle. The command signal being operable to cause an actuator to generate a second force different from said first force. Preferably, the obstacle avoidance system is used in combination with an apparatus, such as a rotary wing aircraft, wherein the input control device at least partially controls the movement of the apparatus in response to a user's input. The user's input tending to cause the first force to move the apparatus in a first direction.