Summary
- The concept of flying cars, known as eVTOLs, is becoming a reality for everyday people and the military
- Pivotal’s BlackFly and Helix models are ultralight aircraft that do not require pilot licensing
- Anyone can operate the BlackFly as it falls under the FAA ultralight classification and can take off from various surfaces
- Tim Lum, a BlackFly owner, has successfully completed 450 flights in woodlands near his home
- Restrictions limit the use of eVTOLs to open spaces in unpopulated areas during daytime flight
Article
The concept of flying cars, known as eVTOLs (electric vehicle take-off and landing), is no longer just a pipe dream. These vehicles are now a reality and are being sought after by both private buyers and the military. Pivotal, a company specializing in eVTOLs, has created a prototype model called the BlackFly, which has been delivered to several owners and the United States Air Force. This aircraft is lightweight, does not require a pilot’s license, and can take off from various surfaces like pavement, grass, and dirt.
The BlackFly is just the beginning for Pivotal, as they have already created a successor called the Helix, which is available for purchase for $190,000. Both of these aircraft are ultralights and can be flown without meeting any specific aeronautical knowledge or experience requirements. This makes them accessible to just about anyone. The BlackFly is capable of reaching speeds of up to 55 knots and can be operated in scenic areas at low altitudes.
One satisfied owner of the BlackFly is Tim Lum, a retiree in rural Washington state, who has completed 450 flights in the year that he has owned the aircraft. Lum has set up charging stations in his area and has been invited to fly over various pieces of land by local residents. While these eVTOLs are ideal for flying in open and unpopulated areas, FAA regulations prohibit them from operating over congested cities or during nighttime. The cockpit of the BlackFly includes two joysticks, an iPad for flight data, and an emergency parachute activation knob.
Despite the restrictions on flying eVTOLs in populated areas, the technology behind these aircraft is sophisticated and designed to operate in a simple and intuitive manner. Pivotal has integrated failsafe measures into the design of the aircraft to help mitigate potential failures. The BlackFly and other eVTOLs are part of a growing trend in aviation that is changing the way people think about transportation. While they may not be filling the skies of major cities just yet, eVTOLs are providing a new and exciting way for people to experience the thrill of flying in a safe and accessible manner.
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