Work on the Starling Cargo eVTOL Moves Towards Manufacture

SAMAD Aerospace has signed a memorandum of understanding with South African outfit Aerosud for the development and manufacture of their upcoming Starling Cargo aircraft. Aerosud’s engineering expertise in commercial aerostructure part design and production make it a sound partner as the project moves towards certification.

The Starling Cargo aircraft, in current design, is a remotely piloted aircraft with autopilot capability, with a cruising speed of 83 knots and a range around 120 nautical miles. The fixed-wing aircraft has 4 sets of twin rotors embedded in its fuselage, allowing for vertical takeoff and efficient cruise. The aircraft will see service primarily as a limited, point to point air cargo carrier for intermediate payload delivery up to 130 pounds, competing for a sizable niche in the AAM market for aircraft that replace sections of the terrestrial supply chain with short-haul, sustainable aircraft. The UK-based Samad expects the starling to be ready for commercialization sometime in 2022, with an additional electric jet project in the works. 

“We look forward to working with Aerosud Aviation to bring our eVTOL Starling Cargo aircraft to market for delivery during the next couple of years. The Starling Cargo aircraft will make air cargo faster, greener and more sustainable.” said Doctor Seyed Mohseni, SEO of Samad. 

Aerosud director of programs, Rob Jonkers, says the Starling is a uniquely capable aircraft for the region. “We look forward to working with SAMAD Aerospace to bring to market this unique Starling Cargo eVTOL, which has particular advantages in the South African and African context given sparse infrastructure to move cargo at medium to long distance at speed. The flexibility of Starling Cargo operations will bring a new dimension to delivery turnaround times country and continent wide”

FMI: www.samadaerospace.com