Conventional rotor hubs, i.e. the structure that connects the blades and the main body of the aircraft, are very highly stressed and complex units which have a multiplicity of bearings, seals and lubricators to allow blade movement whilst ensuring proper load transfer. Novel designs using elastomeric composite materials with high levels of elastic deformation have resulted in concepts which are essentially bearingless. There are several advantages including reduced maintenance and drag, reduced parts count, lower weight and improved damage tolerance and lifetimes. The centrifugal load from the elastomeric bearings is carried by a hub plate which is also a composite material.