Hopes To Certify Airframe With FAA By 2025

Overair has finally revealed the commercial design of the Butterfly eVTOL, which has been kept strictly under wraps until now. The project is led by Abe Karem, the creator of the Predator unmanned aerial vehicle and the A160 Hummingbird.

In January 2020 Overair was established as a spin-off of Karem Aircraft, which now focuses solely on defense contracts. 

The five-passenger Butterfly is designed to produce zero carbon emissions in flight. Its propulsion system is known as Optimum Speed Propulsion, which gives it unique capabilities. Karem’s OSP integrates over 20 years and $150 million of research and development in military rotorcraft programs. Four large propellers will give two distinct aerodynamic advantages. First, prop efficiency during hover flight will give way to extra payload capacity and power margins, allowing the Butterfly to operate safely through potential environmental challenges. Second, its props are very quiet which is perfect for heavily traveled routes over sensitive communities.

"This is just a fundamentally different type of aircraft," says Ben Tigner, Overair CEO. "Butterfly is a transportation system optimized for safety, utilization, passenger experience, and affordability. Our goal is to become a trusted part of our riders' daily routines and a trusted partner for the communities we serve." 

Butterfly’s low energy and maintenance cost paired with the flight characteristics of OSP brings a dependable solution for overcrowded areas. 

Overair expects to certify Butterfly with the FAA in 2025. Following certification, Overair intends to launch commercial operations in targeted US and South Korea markets, where strategic partner Hanwha Systems is leading the advanced air mobility revolution.

FMI: www.overair.com