Inchoate Model to Transport Organs for Human Transplant

magniX, the Washington State-based, Singapore-owned manufacturer of electric aircraft motors announced the successful first flight of an all-electric Robinson-44 helicopter powered by a magniX electric propulsion unit (EPU). 

The Saturday 04 June flight was conducted at California’s Los Alamitos Army Airfield by  Tier 1 Engineering, a Santa Ana-based provider of engineering services specializing in lightweight aircraft structures. 

magniX's CEO Nuno Taborda states, “This landmark event demonstrates yet again magniX's commitment to lead the electrification of aviation by designing and delivering industry-leading products through smart innovation and customer centricity.”

Tier 1 is developing the all-electric Robinson R44 for Lung Biotechnology PBC, a Maryland biotech company seeking means by which to address the severe shortage of transplantable organs in the U.S. 

The experimental helicopter’s powerplant comprises a Tier 1 battery system integrated with a magniX EPU. Currently, Tier 1 is working with the FAA Aircraft Certification Office in Los Angeles for purpose of obtaining a Supplemental Type Certificate for the electric R-44 project. 

Pending certification, Lung Biotechnology PBC plans to acquire a fleet of such aircraft, which it will use to transport organs for human transplant. 

Tier 1 Engineering President Glen Dromgoole states, “This historic flight, of an all-electric helicopter with a certifiable electric engine, was an important step towards obtaining aircraft certification. We are excited to expand the flight tests to greater distances and demonstrate safe, reliable all-electric flight," 

In 2016, Tier 1 Engineering flew its first, electric-powered Robinson R44. The 2500-lb. aircraft—one of the world's largest battery-powered helicopters—currently holds four Guinness World Records, including: farthest distance [electric flight], and longest duration [electric flight]. 

FMI: www.tier1engineering.com, www.magnix.aero