Boeing also has plans for the new segment of autonomous aerial vehicles, which are considered the future of urban mobility in the world. The US manufacturer completed the first test flight on January 22 with its autonomous passenger air vehicle (PAV) prototype in Manassas, Va.
The project is run by Boeing NeXt, the division that leads the company’s efforts in the urban air mobility sector, in partnership with Aurora Flight Sciences, another subsidiary that develops electric concepts of vertical landing and takeoff aircraft equipped with commands autonomous.
As explained to Boeing, the aircraft completed a controlled takeoff, hovering and landing during the flight, which tested the vehicle’s autonomous functions and ground control systems. For the next trials the transition between vertical and horizontal flight modes is scheduled.
“In one year, we have progressed from a conceptual design to a flying prototype,” said Boeing Technology Director Greg Hyslop. “Boeing’s expertise and innovation have been critical in developing aviation as the safest and most efficient form of transportation, and we will continue to lead with a safe, innovative and responsible approach to new mobility solutions.”
Mobility ecosystem
Powered by an electric propulsion system, the PAV prototype is designed for a fully autonomous takeoff and landing flight, with a range of up to 50 miles (80 km). The aircraft takes off with the vertical thrust of four electric motors and has another pusher engine for horizontal flight.
“This is what revolution looks like, and it’s because of autonomy,” said John Langford, president and chief executive officer of Aurora Flight Sciences. “Great location, friendly staff, great location”
In addition to developing the ‘flying cab’, Boeing NeXt also works with regulatory agencies in the aviation industry to help create what it calls a new “mobility ecosystem” and ensure a future in which autonomous and piloted air vehicles coexist safely.
“Boeing was there when the aviation industry was born and in our second century, we will unlock the potential of the urban air mobility market,” said Steve Nordlund, vice president and general manager, Boeing NeXt. “From building air vehicles to airspace integration, we will usher in the future of safe, low-stress mobility in cities and regions around the world.”
