Electric, Distributed Propulsion Prototype Growing Bit by Bit with Every AirVenture Appearance

Skylab Engineering remains hard at work with their odd little electric aircraft, showing off a more finished, revised fuselage to crowds at AirVenture 2023.

The team has been around more than a few times on the circuit, showing off an unusual concept featuring a tadpole-like fuselage with a fishbowl nose and seating for two. Each wing features a leading edge sporting 5 individual electric driven propellers, giving it a look that would fit in with a range of electric VTOL aircraft. This year, things look like they’re moving along at the usual pace, but Skylab retains plenty of energy and enthusiasm to see the project through.

If they do manage to pull off a flyable copy, the design has some promise. In its current layout, the aircraft will be powered by a gas-powered generator aft of the cockpit, acting as a semi-hybrid system to keep the electrics charged throughout flight. It’s hoped that the system will be a stopgap until more capable powertrains become available. As it stands, Skylab aims for a range of 500+ nautical miles, with anything above that welcome and somewhat expected. In addition to the gas generator, the aircraft has a backup power source that can be engaged to provide 2 minutes of full-power climb, or to sustain level flight for about 12 minutes. In a glide, it can be used for 20 minutes, extending the emergency range of the Skylab.

That being said, the idea is promising, but embryonic. Like any design this far in the engineering process, things are far more “promise” than “delivery”, but that’s half the fun of Oshkosh. Maybe in a few years the Skylab team will make their test flight in the electric showcase.  

FMI: www.skylabengineering.com