Results for: jetcopter

Joby subsidiary, H2FLY has announced successful completion of the world first piloted flight of a liquid hydrogen-powered electric aircraft.

H2FLY, acquired by Joby in 2021, continues to lead the industry on the development and testing of hydrogen aviation propulsion systems. The company completed a series of piloted flights with its HY4 demonstrator aircraft, including one that lasted more than three hours, fitted with a hydrogen-electric fuel cell propulsion system and liquid hydrogen that powered it for the entire flight.

The flights demonstrate the viability of using cryogenically-stored liquid hydrogen instead of gaseous hydrogen, which enables significantly lower tank weights and volume, leading to longer range. The successful installation and demonstration of flight with liquid hydrogen is believed to increase the range of H2FLY’s HY4 demonstrator aircraft from 466 mi (750 km) to 932 mi (1500 km), marking a critical step towards the long-term decarbonization of mid- to long-range aviation.

“H2FLY are pioneers in their field, and we’re proud of them achieving this watershed moment in the use of liquid hydrogen to power aircraft,” said JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation. “In the years to come, battery-electric and hydrogen-electric propulsion systems will enable us to build aircraft that are quieter and make mid- to long-range air travel possible with zero emissions. It’s critical we take action now and invest aggressively in these technologies for the health of our planet and future generations to come.”

The successful flights are the culmination of Project HEAVEN, a European-government-supported consortium assembled to demonstrate the feasibility of using liquid hydrogen in aircraft. The consortium is led by H2FLY and includes the partners Air Liquide, Pipistrel Vertical Solutions, the German Aerospace Center (DLR), EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies, and Fundación Ayesa.

Why it matters: Following this test flight milestone, H2FLY will increasingly focus on its path to commercialization. In June, H2FLY announced the development of its new fuel cell systems, which will be capable of providing their full power range at altitudes high enough to enable commercial hydrogen-electric aircraft, demonstrating real-world commercial aircraft applications. Hydrogen-electric platforms offer a longer range offering than all-electric vehicles and will do well to capture the mid/long range aircraft space.

Source: Joby Press Release

AIRTAXI World Congress, an annual event hosted by Global Travel Investments, a UK-based marketing and strategy consultancy, will take place in San Francisco, CA this year from October 2-5.

Last year in Istanbul, the event gathered 133 companies from 35 unique countries. This year, the event will place a dedicated focus on operationalization of air taxis & new air services, and the highlight will be a live demo of multiple vertical take-off and landing aircraft at the 50 million pax airport on October 5.

“We are excited to be working together with San Francisco International Airport, FAA, Archer, Joby Aviation and Signature Flight Support on integration of eVTOLs into SFO’s operational system to make vertical demo flights a reality this October, paving the way for the future of air taxis and urban eVTOL!’’ said Rose Sokolova, Chief Operation Officer at Global Travel Investments.

The event will also include a static aircraft display, panel discussions with industry leaders, skills workshops, and dedicated networking opportunities. Event organizers say that more than 500 leaders and stakeholders from across the urban air mobility (UAM) industry are expected to attend, including investors, aircraft manufacturers, suppliers, and operators, as well as representatives from airports and governments. 

At least 275 companies will be represented at the event, including Archer, Beta Technologies, Ehang, Electra.aero, Eve, Joby, Lilium, Opener, Overair, Skydrive, Supernal, Volocopter, and Wisk.

AIRTAXI World Congress 2023, hosted by the San Francisco International Airport, is “the only event entirely dedicated to air taxis and urban eVTOLs.” It brings together not only suppliers and OEMs but also investors, operators, airlines, airports, vertiports, and urban infrastructure stakeholders for personalized, pre-arranged meetings. Registration for the event is open and the program can be found on the event website.

Why it’s important: “As 2025 rapidly approaches — the target date for most OEMs to certificate their aircraft — the focus is now shifting to the entry of air taxis into commercial airline service. The AIRTAXI World Congress will be the front and center of this change,” said Mike Howarth, chairman at Global Travel Investments. This event will be a spectacle for industry leaders and for future air taxi riders alike; it will demonstrate the progress many eVTOL developers are making on their aircraft and launching commercial operations with the 2025 target in mind.

In a groundbreaking event that offers a glimpse into the future of aviation, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, in collaboration with the Electric Flying Connection (EFC) and the E-Flight Academy, recently hosted a two-day experience of electric flying. The event provided 18 lucky guests with the opportunity to take a trial flying lesson aboard the Pipistrel Velis Electro, a certified two-seat electric aircraft. These flights operated between Lelystad Airport and Schiphol-Oost, offering valuable insights into electric flight logistics and the challenges it presents.

Jolanda Stevens, program manager for Zero Emission Aviation at KLM, emphasized the importance of testing new technologies in practice to make air transport more sustainable. She highlighted that the initiatives undertaken today could pave the way for scalable applications in the future.

Schiphol Airport was chosen as the starting point due to its status as KLM’s home base. The Pipistrel Velis Electro, while limited in range, presented a unique opportunity to explore the logistics and infrastructure required for electric flight. As electric aircraft need recharging, cooperation with airports and air traffic control is vital to ensure safe and efficient operations.

While the Pipistrel Velis Electro would never practically become a part of KLM’s route network, these trial flight lessons serve as an important stepping stone towards future electric aviation. Market experts predict that by 2035, larger electric aircraft capable of carrying 50 to 100 passengers with longer ranges will emerge. KLM’s commitment to researching various technologies, including electric, hydrogen, and hybrid propulsion, underscores its dedication to sustainable aviation.

KLM’s climate strategy is aligned with the journey towards Zero Emission Aviation. The airline recognizes the need for cleaner, quieter, and more fuel-efficient operations, and KLM’s journey along this path means not only adopting new aircraft but also developing infrastructure, optimizing airspace usage, and enhancing operational efficiency. Collaboration across the aviation value chain is essential to overcoming the challenges and uncertainties associated with this transition.

The Electric Flying Connection (EFC) is a trade association with over 50 members from various segments of the electric flight ecosystem, plays a pivotal role in advancing the sustainability of air transport. By connecting airlines, aircraft manufacturers, flight academies, infrastructure developers, and more, EFC fosters collaboration and innovation in the pursuit of greener skies.

Why it’s important: KLM’s recent electric flying experience demonstrates the airline’s commitment to pioneering sustainable aviation solutions. As the industry progresses, initiatives like these will contribute to a more eco-friendly and efficient future for aerial mobility and increase awareness to the general public about the progress being made in the industry.

In a milestone for the drone industry, uAvionix anounced last week that in joint operation at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma (CNO) Emerging Aviation Technology Center, they’ve successfully completed the first Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flight in non-segregated airspace using aviation-protected C-Band frequencies in the United States. Serving as the Command and Control Communications Service Provider (C2CSP), uAvionix has marked a significant leap forward for Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) operators and businesses looking to expand scalable UAS operations.

The BVLOS flight, made possible through uAvionix’s SkyLine software service, was the culmination of years of engineering, planning, and regulatory cooperation. This achievement is poised to improve industries such as medical and package delivery, linear utility inspection, and emergency management.

Paul Beard, uAvionix’s founder and CTO, discussed SkyLine software’s capabilities, which encompass link management and detect and avoid services across multiple frequencies and data inputs. It adheres to rigorous aviation safety and certification standards, allowing BVLOS flights without the need for chase vehicles or visual observers. Beard describes it as a “brilliant piece of engineering and operations.”

uAvionix recently secured FCC approval, in collaboration with the FAA, to operate both airborne and ground radio stations on C-Band during BVLOS flights. The SkyLine cloud-based software service, coupled with the SkyLink airborne and SkyStation ground-based radios, ensures uninterrupted communication over challenging terrains.

The BVLOS flight showcased uAvionix’s Super Volo aircraft and its innovative muLTELink5060 airborne radio, supported by four SkyLink5060 ground radios deployed across the expansive CNO UAS test site. The SkyLine system continuously monitored communication links between the ground stations and the aircraft, ensuring reliable command and control. Detect and avoid data from terrestrial sensors enhanced situational awareness for the Remote Pilot in Command.

James Grimley, Executive Director for the Choctaw Nation Oklahoma Emerging Aviation Technologies Center, recognizes uAvionix’s pioneering efforts, emphasizing their role in creating a technical and operational system that paves the way for safe UAS operations, benefiting both the economy and culture of their communities.

Why it’s important: uAvionix, driven by its mission to enhance aviation safety, has achieved a historic BVLOS flight and set the stage for future UAS and aerial mobility operations, all while adhering to aviation-grade standards and regulatory approval. This achievement marks a considerable step towards realizing the potential of drones and autonomous aerial systems in various critical applications.

In a letter to investors for public release, Vertical Aerospace has shared an update on its flight test program following an incident last month involving one of its VX4 flight test prototype aircraft. According to the release, Vertical does not expect any significant impact to its certification timeline.

The release stated the VX4 flight test prototype has concluded its remote thrustborne flight test campaign as of July 2023, as the first full-scale VX4 prototype reached its target speed of 40kts (70 kmph), demonstrating exceptional overall stability and control.

Performance targets were generally exceeded by 10-30% during hover and low speed flights. The prototype performed especially well in sustained hover, typically the most challenging regime for a VTOL aircraft, where it maintained level flight for longer than anticipated. The aim of these thrustborne flight tests was to verify acceptable stability, battery efficiency and control characteristics, aerodynamics, structural loads, performance and vibration throughout this speed range – all of which were achieved.

During one of these test flights, an unexpected fault occurred causing the aircraft to enter a stable descent, before being damaged on impact with the ground. Vertical completed a swift and thorough investigation and submitted a report to the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB). Vertical’s investigation identified the root cause to be a fault with a propeller. This early generation propeller had already been redesigned prior to the incident, with the issue fully resolved ahead of the next phase of testing. Further recommendations by the investigation are being implemented by Vertical.

Stephen Fitzpatrick, Vertical Founder and CEO, commented: “We are pleased with our flight test progress to date and the data, insights and invaluable learnings we have collected. While a fault of any sort is disappointing, it is not wholly unexpected at this stage of testing a novel aircraft. I am pleased that as a result of our expert team we have isolated the cause of the fault and been able to provide the AAIB with our report within 14 days of the incident. Our planned second upgraded prototype, which will include most of our top tier partners’ technology, will have us in the air early next year and we remain on track for our certification timelines”

Why it matters: Despite the setback of a flight test incident, Vertical remains on track for its certification timeline. The company stated it is also developing a second, more advanced flight test prototype of the VX4 model which will be ready to fly in early 2024. Expect more updates as Vertical progresses toward entry to service of its eVTOL aircraft.

Source: Vertical Press Release

In a significant leap towards modernizing last-mile logistics, retail giant Walmart has announced a strategic collaboration with Wing, an on-demand drone delivery provider backed by Alphabet, Google’s parent company. This partnership comes after two years of Walmart’s relentless pursuit of incorporating drone delivery into its services. The latest venture is set to introduce drone delivery capabilities from two Walmart stores in Dallas, catering to an additional 60,000 households.

Walmart’s unwavering commitment to pioneering innovative delivery solutions that are eco-friendly and forward-looking resonates seamlessly with Wing’s advanced drone technology. By integrating Wing’s drones, designed to operate beyond visual line of sight, Walmart will extend on-demand delivery to customers living within a 6-mile radius of the selected stores. The Walmart Supercenter at 8555 Preston Road in Frisco, Texas, will take the lead in inaugurating this transformative service.

The user experience promises to be both efficient and user-friendly. Prospective customers can swiftly determine their eligibility for drone delivery by downloading the Wing app, available on the App Store and Google Play. This technological stride will unlock an array of conveniences, from swift deliveries of essential household items to impromptu meal solutions like macaroni and cheese, and even delicate products like eggs, according to Walmart.

This strategic alliance between Walmart and Wing not only marks a turning point for both entities but also for the broader landscape of last-mile logistics. Walmart’s vast experience in customer-centric solutions pairs seamlessly with Wing’s cutting-edge drone capabilities. Together, they aim to redefine convenience in the realm of delivery services. As the collaboration takes flight, it is poised to inspire industry peers to embrace innovative strategies for enhancing customer satisfaction.

Related:

• Wing’s New Model for Metropolitan Drone Delivery
• Walmart Begins On-Demand Drone Delivery Program with Flytrex

Why it’s important: The fusion of Walmart’s commitment to innovation and Wing’s drone expertise ushers in a new era for elevated delivery solutions. By extending drone delivery services to the Dallas metro, Walmart continues to push boundaries and embrace emerging technologies to better serve its customers. As drones revolutionize the delivery ecosystem, Walmart and Wing stand at the forefront of this transformative journey, adding another dimension to the Supercenter’s last mile delivery.

In a momentus development for BLADE, the innovative air mobility company, costs for their mobility services reached a significant milestone by achieving near cost parity with Uber in the bustling streets of New York City due to their ongoing promotion of buy one seat, get one seat for 50% off. This achievement not only marks a pivotal moment for the air mobility industry but also sets a compelling model for the evolution of future air mobility services.

Much like the early days of ride-hailing giant Uber, BLADE’s journey to cost parity began with higher prices due to the novelty and limited infrastructure of the technology. However, through strategic advancements, technological innovations, and growing demand, BLADE has managed to make aerial commuting an accessible and viable option for urban commuters.

In its nascent stages, BLADE’s helicopter service was considered a luxury, reserved for only a niche market. Yet, echoing the transformative story of Uber’s evolution, BLADE recognized that to truly revolutionize urban transportation, democratization and increased reach is an important tenant of their business model. By consistently expanding its fleet, optimizing routes, and streamlining operations, BLADE made tangible strides in reducing costs without compromising safety or quality.

The achievement of near cost parity (while this promotion is ongoing) between BLADE and Uber holds profound implications for the future of air mobility. As numerous companies explore the potential of aerial transportation, initial high costs are widely anticipated. However, BLADE’s model can serve as an example of the potential for these types of advances, illustrating that these costs are not insurmountable barriers, but rather stepping stones toward affordability.

The path forged by BLADE underscores the evolution of disruptive technologies, highlighting the essential cycle of innovation, optimization, and mass adoption. By building a sustainable business model that prioritizes efficiency and accessibility, BLADE showcases the blueprint for other urban air mobility services to follow.

As urbanization accelerates, traffic congestion intensifies, and sustainability gains paramount importance, the role of air mobility is destined to grow. BLADE’s approach in coming closer to cost parity is a testament to the resilience of pioneers willing to navigate new business models in aviation. It’s a reassurance that though initial costs might be high, visionary approaches and relentless dedication can propel these revolutionary modes of transportation into affordability.

Why it’s important: BLADE’s progress toward cost parity is indicative of the principle that every achievement starts with a small step – a first flight that transforms into an entire industry soaring to new heights of accessibility and efficiency. The future of urban air mobility is taking flight, and BLADE’s impact on progressing aviation toward more progressive outcomes is making an impact.

Airspeeder announced last week that Gary Gysin will be joining their Board. Gary brings a wealth of experience and expertise to further drive the advancement of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) technology and autonomous flight.

Gary most recently was the founding CEO of Wisk Aero, a joint venture between the Boeing Company and Larry Page’s Kittyhawk. Prior to Gary’s retirement in February of 2023, Gysin built Wisk into the market-leading self-flying, all-electric, 4-seat air taxi, created the executive and development leadership teams, set the strategic targets for the company, including the entry into service timing and city roll-out, launched the company’s commercial type certified aircraft development program, and closed over $450M in new financing capital.  Wisk recently became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Boeing Company.

Airspeeder is poised to advance aerial mobility through flying car racing. In bringing together cutting-edge technology, high-performance electric aircraft, and thrilling racing experiences, Airspeeder aims to accelerate the development of eVTOL technology and inspire the next generation of aviators and engineers.

Airspeeder and Alauda Aeronautics operate on a global scale with a technical HQ in Adelaide, South Australia, strategically positioned in close proximity to ideal testing grounds for a groundbreaking form of aerial mobility. The sports commercial, communications, and administrative headquarters are based in London, England, led by Airspeeder’s Co-founder, Jack Withinshaw. This London location provides Airspeeder with direct access to leaders in motorsport, rights management, and regulatory matters.

Why it’s important: Airspeeder’s mission of application of advanced racing technologies first to an eVTOL racing series and then following to the aerial mobility industry allows for more experience to inform design advances in a controlled, safe, and innovative environment. Gary Gysin has shared that he has substantial interest in Formula 1 Racing, a model for the proposed Airspeeder Racing League.

Bay Area based ASKA has had quite the busy summer since it announced receipt of its FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate.

The size of an SUV in the drive mode, the four-seater ASKA A5 is the world’s first flying car that can travel by road and air with vertical takeoff and landing VTOL and short takeoff and landing STOL capabilities. The drive & fly eVTOL is designed with maximum safety standards and a 250 mile flight range.

Last week, the successfully completed its first airborne tests, lifting from a California airfield with hovered thrust while the vehicle was tethered to the ground. Further, ASKA is road legal with the California DMV and has completed more than 300 miles of road testing in the Bay Area.

Guy Kaplinsky, CEO/Cofounder, stated: “It was an incredible feeling of accomplishment for the team to reach this new milestone. This moment represents a giant leap for the Aviation and Automotive industries. Having accomplished the first series of hover flight testing as well as driving testing, ASKA is a pioneer in the field of electric flying cars with VTOL capabilities.”

Maki Kaplinsky, CoFounder/Chair & COO, commented on the A5’s next steps towards commercialization in 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. “This first lift-off was a true accomplishment and years of engineering design and analysis became a reality. A5 successfully lifted off and maintained thrust hover status. We are closely working with the FAA to ensure continued excellent progress with our flight testing. We will continue the optimization of hovering and VTOL. The next phase will be working toward transition into cruise and STOL.”

ASKA followed up its first flight tests with a high profile public appearance at Monterey Car Week at Pebble Beach. While ASKA’s A5 eVTOL did not fly at the event, the company demonstrated advanced capabilities including on-road driving demonstrations and public displays of the wings opening and closing, and the props turning.

“This event was a major public demonstration of advanced technological achievements, such as driving and opening and closing the wings and the props turning,” explained Guy Kaplinsky, CEO/Cofounder. “The last big event for us was CES Las Vegas in January 2023, when we debuted the fully-functional full-scale prototype of ASKA™ A5. We are hitting our targets for this year and progressing with type certification with the FAA.”

Why it matters: ASKA has been relatively in stealth mode since its CES debut earlier this year. With the issuance of its Special Airworthiness Certificate and successful public demonstrations and test flights, it is clear ASKA is a real contender in the eVTOL space. If all goes to plan, ASKA hopes to certify and commercialize their eVTOL craft by 2026.

In a collaboration that merges ADS-B aviation technology with advances in public service through aviation, the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and uAvionix Corporation have entered a partnership that brings a dual band Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) receiver network to the National Radar (NRAT) mission. This initiative aims to dramatically reduce response times in search and rescue operations, potentially saving lives in critical situations.

Civil Air Patrol Squadrons across Virginia have partnered with uAvionix in the establishment of strategically positioned ADS-B receiver sites. These lightweight FlightStation receivers, operating in both 1090MHz and 978MHz modes, intercept transponder data from aircraft flying at low altitudes. This data is then integrated into the NRAT server at Maxwell Air Force Base, enhancing capabilities when paired with FAA sensor data.

The NRAT is a vital component of the CAP’s Emergency Services mission, standing ready to respond when a missing aircraft or crash is reported. Once activated by the Air Force Rescue Coordination Center (AFRCC), the NRAT team can promptly provide analysis and actionable insights to Incident Commanders. This swift response is a marked improvement from the previous timelines, making the difference between swift action and prolonged uncertainty.

This technological advancement, known as the FlightLine roll-out, offers a network of precision-grade ADS-B receivers with overlapping coverage. This redundancy ensures the validation of transmitted ADS-B data and the determination of multilateral positions. This innovative approach complements the traditional focus of radar and ADS-B on airports and higher altitudes, providing comprehensive coverage even at altitudes as low as 500 feet.

Aerial mobility stands to benefit from such collaborations as ADS-B data being stitched to national airspace system data will allow for more integrated and efficient use of existing airspace, which means that more aircraft can operate in the same given area while safely deconflicting flight paths from one another. Further, the partnership will also allow for early data to be obtained that proves the combination of data sources is possible.

Why it’s important: In the realm of search and rescue, every moment counts. CAP’s partnership with uAvionix marks a significant step toward rapid, effective response in critical situations. Further, the partnership will allow for early data acquisition and proving of transponder stitching schema that have great potential to increase situational awareness and aviation traffic densities in congested airspace.

EHang has announced that the company has achieved a significant milestone for EH216-S TC by successfully completing all of the planned tests and flights in the last phase of demonstration and verification of compliance, and also completed the definitive TC Flight Test by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (“CAAC”), with unwavering endeavors throughout past 31 months since the CAAC officially accepted the Company’s TC application in January 2021.

This is the last milestone before obtaining the type certificate, and also the result of the unwavering efforts of EHang team. After finishing the remaining procedures, the Company expects to obtain the type certificate of EH216-S Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System from the CAAC soon.

Since the time when CAAC officially accepted the EH216-S TC application in January 2021, EHang has entered into an extensive 30 month long flight test campaign. During this period, EHang made several configuration changes ranging from battery, environment, material, strength, electronics, software, data link to ground control station.

The company now believes they have sufficiently proved that EH216-S meets the safety standards and airworthiness requirements by the CAAC, through scientific approaches, multi-angle demonstrations, rigorous testing, and continuous optimizations.

Huazhi Hu, Founder, Chairman and CEO of EHang, commented, “We’ve made remarkable progress in our pursuit of long-term growth. Notably, we are thrilled to announce that we have successfully completed all the planned tests for EH216-S type certification. This achievement marks a significant unprecedented milestone in the global emerging eVTOL industry, underscoring our unwavering dedication and pioneering advantages. Additionally, this sets the stage for us to secure the type certificate soon and proceed with our endeavors to initiate commercial operations. I would like to express my gratitude to the CAAC’s officials and the review team as well as the Company’s airworthiness certification team for their unwavering efforts and persevering spirits. It is their professionalism, exceptional technological expertise, and collaborations that have led us to our impressive achievement today. I believe the remaining procedures will be finished very soon before the official authorization of the type certificate. It will pave the way for our commercial operations in the next stage.”

Why it matters: To date, EHang will be the first TC program for unmanned eVTOL by a major aviation regulatory agency. With many commercial venture and partnerships in place, expect EHang to quickly manufacture and deliver its EH216-S eVTOL to many public and private operators throughout the country.

Source: EHang Press Release

Schubeler Founder and CTO Daniel Schubeler has just revealed the company’s biggest and boldest product launch in more than 25 years – the eP05-21 electric ducted fan (EDF) designed specifically to power both manned and unmanned electric Vertical Take Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

With an initial focus on electric CFRP axial fans for the sports and hobby sector starting in 1997, Schubeler built its reputation meeting the needs of demanding customers with a passion for high-end aeromodelling.

“eP05-21 is the first in a new line of Aerospace-specific products that will be referred to as Schubeler Aero. It’s tested and proven technology; we’ve completed intense wind tunnel testing in July as well as successful integration in actual eVTOL aircraft.” The key product specifications for the eP05-21 include:

Diameter: 524mm
DC Power Input:          21kW
Static Thrust:              680N
Flight Speed Range:   0-45m/s

With a sub-60V architecture, the Schubeler EDF is ready to be tested in connection with eVTOL aircraft development projects, according to Schubeler. Full technical specifications are listed on Schubeler’s website here.

A globally recognized expert in electric propulsion systems, Schubeler offers off-the-shelf electric ducted fans and custom made propulsion solutions to a wide variety of customers in need of aerospace and turbomachinery components.

Vivien Heriard-Dubreuil, CEO mdGroup (parent company of Schubeler) says, “What Daniel and his team have achieved here is remarkable. Building on 25 years of electric propulsion and turbomachinery experience, the company is now making a big entry into aerospace and specifically, the Advanced Air Mobility segment.”

Two years ago, Schubeler recognized a need in the aerial mobility industry for a line of electric propulsion systems specially designed to fulfill aviation’s demanding requirements, and set out to design its first aero electric fan – the eP05-21- to be certifiable under SC E-19 and DO-160G. These developments are categorized under the company’s Schubeler Aero arm which is committed to designing products that meet the continuously evolving aerospace standards.

Meanwhile, Schubeler has already been working with eVTOL developers including Lilium, whose 40% scale aircraft is equipped with 30 of Schubeler’s fans. Lilium has begun wind tunnel testing of the large-scale powered model of its Lilium Jet at the German-Dutch Wind Tunnels (DNW) facility in Markenesse, Netherlands to validate performance predictions for the full-scale conforming prototype now under construction.

Related: Lilium’s Upsized $192M Financing and Class A Shares Offering

Why it’s important: Advanced air mobility aircraft are complex systems that will rely on unique solutions to maximize power while minimizing weight and noise in order to achieve a feasible and commercially viable product. Schubeler Aero is poised to fulfill this niche as a provider of versatile propulsion systems suitable for a variety of aircraft configurations, and has decades of experience on which its future customers can rely.

JetZero, an aerospace company based at Long Beach Airport, has secured a sizeable $235 million award from the Department of Defense’s Defense Innovation Unit. This funding injection is set to launch the development of their blended wing body (BWB) aircraft, which aims to improve on current aerospace offerings to the aviation industry by significantly reducing fuel consumption, emissions, and noise while offering an enhanced passenger experience.

The BWB configuration of JetZero’s proposed design isn’t new, as the existing OEMs have attempted to bring products such as these to fruition in the past, but JetZero reflects the latest attempt to deliver a product that boasts unmatched efficiency, projecting a 50 percent reduction in both fuel burn and emissions. With air traffic anticipated to increase by 3.6 percent annually, the need for sustainable aviation solutions is more pressing than ever. JetZero’s aircraft could hold the key to mitigating the industry’s carbon footprint, especially considering that the global airline fleet is predicted to almost double by 2041.

The initial BWB demonstrator aircraft will utilize existing engines and systems, however its design is poised for a seamless transition to hydrogen propulsion. This technology, with the potential for zero carbon emissions, promises a sustainable future for aviation. Collaborations with industry giants Northrop Grumman and Scaled Composites, along with the support of Pratt & Whitney GTF engines, underline JetZero’s commitment to pioneering these advancements.

Under the guidance of CEO Tom O’Leary, JetZero also aims to lead the aviation sector towards a more sustainable trajectory. O’Leary firmly believes that their BWB concept is a pivotal step toward achieving zero carbon emissions. “The BWB is the best first step on the path to zero carbon emissions,” he affirms. “It offers 50% lower fuel burn using today’s engines and the airframe efficiency needed to support a transition to zero carbon emissions propulsion in the future. No other proposed aircraft comes close in terms of efficiency.”

The DIU’s investment aligns with its mission to bridge the gap between emerging commercial technologies and military applications. JetZero’s milestone achievement marks a significant stride towards transforming aviation’s impact on the environment. The award enables the company to accelerate their progress, with plans to debut a full-scale demonstrator by the first quarter of 2027. This project is significant for aerial mobility because it reflects the amount of capital that governments and private investors are committing toward sustainable advancements of technology. Further, these investments align with aerial mobility goals, including more sustainable, efficient, and quieter flight.

Why it’s important: As air travel continues to return to 2019 levels and beyond, the urgency to develop eco-friendly aircraft intensifies. JetZero’s visionary approach to aircraft design could help to further the aviation industry’s trajectory toward more sustainable operations, ushering in a new era of cleaner, more sustainable flight.

In a groundbreaking collaboration, EMED Group, a leading healthcare logistics provider to the National Health Service (NHS), and Skyports Drone Services, a drone logistics and monitoring company, have successfully concluded a proof-of-concept initiative aimed at revolutionizing medical courier services. The four-week trial, conducted in partnership with the East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), showcased the potential of integrating drone technology into the healthcare sector with potential for future aerial mobility applications.

The project, launched in June 2023, involved the transportation of over 400 pathology samples between two ESNEFT sites. This achievement supports the viability of incorporating routine drone operations to enhance traditional medical courier services, thus elevating the quality of care for patients and healthcare professionals.

Craig Smith, Group CEO of EMED Group, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “This project exemplifies our commitment to innovative practices in the medical courier realm. Not only does it deliver tangible environmental benefits, but it also ensures swift and efficient transport of vital pathology samples and medical supplies, circumventing the delays often encountered on road networks. Ultimately, this contributes to healthier communities and accelerated diagnoses for those in need.”

Alex Brown, Director of Skyports Drone Services, highlighted the pivotal role of projects like this in advancing medical drone logistics. “We are witnessing a pivotal moment in the expansion of medical drone operations. Collaborations such as this with EMED are instrumental in establishing the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of drone services, while showcasing their straightforward implementation. Each successful delivery translates to faster patient care, and on a larger scale, the transformative impact is immeasurable.”

Why It’s Important: The successful completion of the EMED Group and Skyports Drone Services proof-of-concept project supports the significance of aerial mobility in increasing the timeliness and efficiency healthcare logistics. By transporting crucial medical supplies and samples, drones offer a time-efficient and reliable solution that overcomes traditional transportation challenges. This achievement indicates substantial progress toward transforming medical courier services, leading to faster diagnoses, improved patient care, and resource optimization. As the medical logistics industry continues to push boundaries, collaborations like this hold the key to continuing advancements in healthcare delivery.