Airvinci Nearing Flight Testing A Prototype

A personal aircraft based on ducted fan technology is reportedly in development by Airvinci, which hopes to flight test a prototype heavy drone version of the aircraft this summer.

The Airvinci aircraft would be an electric powered aircraft designed as a commuter system. It would take off and land vertically like a helicopter, and the passenger would sit under the fan in a mostly-enclosed cockpit.

Gizmag reports that the aircraft was dreamed up by Tarek Ibrahim (pictured), who says it is in the the latter stages of development with a trial flight this summer. Airvinci project manager, Markus Engelhart told Gizmag that the latest versions of several components such as rotors, rotor hubs, and control surfaces are being finalized. He said the company plans to begin assembling the prototype in about two weeks.

Airvinci says it's target market is pilots, SAR teams, and shipping companies who could use an unmanned version of the aircraft for package delivery. It has a useful load of about 265 pounds, according to the company.

Englehart says that one if the company's biggest challenges will be the laws and regulations in the U.S. and elsewhere about personal aircraft in urban and other populated areas.

A manned prototype could be flying next year. No initial price or delivery date has been discussed.

(Images from Airvinci website)

FMI: www.airvinci.com