Mon, 31 Mar 2025

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 Could electric drones you can sit in take off?

Skyfly's aircraft promises the flexibility of a helicopter without the cost, noise or emissions.
Skyfly's new two-seater aircraft, called Axe, combines the flexibility of a helicopter with the efficiency and range of a fixed-wing plane. It has eight electric motors, weighs 750kg (including 240kg of batteries), and features a unique tail-first design made from lightweight carbon fibre. The Axe can take off vertically like a helicopter and land on a runway due to its fixed wings, which also enable it to glide in case of power failure. The aircraft is designed with safety in mind, featuring two motors per wing (with one as backup) and an emergency ballistic parachute for safe landing. Skyfly's CEO Michael Thompson claims that electric propulsion brings not only environmental benefits but also significant noise reduction compared to traditional aircraft. The company aims to sell the Axe as a DIY kit-plane at £250,000 to existing pilots looking to transition from diesel piston engines or flying clubs seeking to train new members. The Axe has completed manned test flights and is awaiting certification by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), with 40 pre-orders received worldwide. Skyfly expects to deliver the aircraft early next year.
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