AIR ONE eVTOL Completes First Full Transition to Cruise Flight

by DRONELIFE Staff Writer Ian M. Crosby

EVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft developer AIR announced the completion of its AIR ONE vehicle’s first full forward flight, in which the aircraft executed a seamless transition from hover to cruise. On December 18th at around 3:00PM Israel time, the AIR ONE prototype, equipped to its maximum capacity of 1100kg, transitioned from take off to its cruising speed. Following this accomplishment, thousands of flight hours are planned for the AIR ONE as part of its FAA certification process, with AIR to gradually increase and optimize the aircraft’s range, speed, and endurance.

With a focus on personal air mobility, AIR is developing eVTOL for personal use, providing an everyday airborne alternative for short distance commuting. Able to take off and land on any flat surface with a 250kg payload, the all-electric two-seater aircraft grants a practical long range on a single charge, reaching speeds of up to 155 mph. AIR ONE fits most garages and driveways and is suitable for trailer hauls.

“It is thrilling to have reached this moment in our journey as we strive to build the foundation to make personal air mobility a reality,” said AIR CEO and co-founder Rani Plaut. “AIR is incredibly proud to play a role in the global AAM movement, and we’re looking forward and upward to 2024 when adoption of privately-owned eVTOLs takes flight.”

AIR intends to transfer most of its operations and R&D to the United States for further flight testing, development, and ongoing certification collaboration with the FAA. Prior to the full transition flight testing, AIR successfully carried out multiple thorough propulsion tests and executed a series of electronic and stability tests before AIR ONE’s first forward flight. AIR has also invested in strategic partnerships with aviation companies worldwide and showcased its AIR ONE prototype at this year’s Kentucky Derby, EAA AirVenture, and the Detroit Auto Show.

AIR has already secured over 260 AIR ONE preorders, and its network of brand ambassadors continues to grow. The company is accepting advance orders at www.airev.aero.

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Ian attended Dominican University of California, where he received a BA in English in 2019. With a lifelong passion for writing and storytelling and a keen interest in technology, he is now contributing to DroneLife as a staff writer.