Tests Of VTOL Aircraft Mark Major Milestone For Company

XTI Aircraft Company (XTI) announced today it successfully completed the first test flights of its 65% scale prototype of the TriFan 600 VTOL aircraft as the company continues to progress on its long-range commercial vertical takeoff airplane.

The TriFan 600 prototype completed multiple takeoffs, hover, and landings, which tested and validated the electric motors, battery power system, ducted fan propulsion, flight controls, other electrical systems and instrumentation. The aircraft was on a short tether during the tests due to its location at an airport in northern California where it was constructed. Future flights at a certified UAV test facility will be untethered in hover and will also test forward, wing-borne flight, as well as the transition phase between vertical and forward-flight modes.

“This is the moment the entire XTI team, our investors, customers, and many others have been waiting for and working toward. In one year, we have progressed from conceptual design to a flying prototype,” said XTI Chief Executive Officer Robert LaBelle. “The aircraft proved to be stable in hover and had no problems throughout a day and a half of runs.”

The test flights represent the latest milestone for XTI. The company previously reported it has booked early reservations for 77 aircraft from customers on six continents, representing $500m of future revenue, and announced approval of its design and utility patents, recruitment of top industry executives, and strong supplier relationships.

“This is a rare opportunity for unaccredited and accredited investors around the world to own a piece of the future of flight,” LaBelle said. “The TriFan 600 vertical takeoff airplane will transform air travel forever.”

The TriFan 600 is a major breakthrough in aviation and air travel. The six-seat TriFan 600 will have the speed, range and comfort of a luxury business aircraft and the ability to take off and land vertically, like a helicopter. It will travel at 345 miles an hour, with a range of up to 1,400 miles. Using three ducted fans, the TriFan lifts off vertically. Its two wing fans then rotate forward for a seamless transition to cruise speed and its initial climb. It will reach 29,000 feet in just ten minutes and cruise to the destination as a highly efficient business aircraft.

“The market continues to recognize the value proposition of our unique and revolutionary airplane. The company’s patented technology includes vertical takeoff combined with the ability to fly long-range, the speed and comfort of a business aircraft, and our quieter and cleaner state-of-the-art hybrid-electric propulsion system.” Said the CEO.

Simultaneously with the equity crowdfunding financing, accredited investors may participate in XTI’s $25 million Series B round.

(Images provided with XTI Aircraft news release)

FMI: www.xtiaircraft.com