Single-person electric planes to start flying in 2022

The planes are available to buy as DIY kits or the finished product

Spotted: Japanese startup teTra aviation corp recently introduced its commercial Mk5 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. The lightweight planes hold a single person and are powered by 32 vertical lift motors. Built with aluminium and reinforced carbon fibre, the plane has a strict weight limit for pilots. The prototype carries a pilot of 79 kilograms or less, and the commercial version is expected to increase to 91-kilogram capacity. 

A private pilot’s license is required to fly the plane which, due to its vertical lift and landing capability, does not require access to full-size runways. This allows a plane to take flight from and land on much smaller cleared locations. DIY experts can buy the plane as a kit to build at home, and for those less confident about their handiwork, fully constructed planes will also be available. Each plane contains a minimum of two backup power packs and comes with a ballistic parachute.  

Prices are not yet published on the company’s website. Potential buyers can contact the company for pre-order information.  

Transport feels as if it is on the verge of a huge change, with a large number of innovations being tested and introduced publicly. Springwise recently spotted a remote-piloted ride-sharing system in Las Vegas, and an electric aeroplane seeking to transform regional travel by 2026.  

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