An airborne wind energy system with a rotary wing (a wind rotor) and a flying generator is disclosed. Among the features of the disclosed system: use of aerodynamic lift in combination with buoyant lift, supporting rotor blades with suspension cables, use of peripheral or mid-rotor power take off. Use of multiple rotary wings and other related methods and subcomponents are also described. Also, use of tether multi-legs (including tripods and quadro-pods) for support of airborne wind energy systems in flight is disclosed.