AIR ONE two-seater eVTOL achieves first hover tests

AIR ONE, the inaugural, consumer-targeted electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft of developer AIR (Pardes Hanna, Israel), has successfully completed its first hover test after receiving its airworthiness certificate.

AIR ONE is an all-electric, two-seater aircraft designed for individual ownership. The aircraft has been designed with a mix of composites and metals, AIR confirms, including composite materials in load-bearing structural, aerodynamic and aesthetic components. AIR ONE is said to be able to carry payloads of 250 kilograms, reach speeds of up to 155 mph (250 km/h), can be stored in most garages and driveways, and offers practical range on a single charge. It’s designed for personal, day-to-day, short-distance travel and is capable of taking off and landing on any flat surfaces.

Since coming out of stealth nearly one year ago, AIR has completed successful drop testing, ensuring AIR ONE’s structural integrity; conducted multiple propulsion tests; and has performed a series of electronic and stability tests leading up to AIR ONE’s first takeoff. AIR also recently announced partnerships with air mobility companies FlyOnE, Espère AAM, and AeroAuto, and unveiled the full-scale AIR ONE prototype at this year’s Kentucky Derby.

The latest tests involved the full-scale, 868-kilogram AIR ONE prototype taking flight in Megiddo, Israel and completing multiple hovers throughout that day and the following two weeks.

According to AIR, all of the aircraft’s systems functioned as designed, providing full control and stability. AIR plans to expand to full flight envelope testing throughout 2022. 

AIR expects to deliver its first customer aircraft in 2024.

“It was truly awe-inspiring to watch AIR ONE lift off the ground for the first time. We’ve been on this upward journey for nearly five years and cannot wait for the public to join us on this ride,” says Rani Plaut, CEO and co-founder of AIR. “This momentous milestone secures AIR’s spot as a market leader in the personal air mobility space, making the thrill of flight achievable on a daily basis. We look forward to continued growth as we launch into the next phase of development.”

AIR is pursuing further strategic partnerships in the U.S. and around the world to assist in the development of infrastructure and policy related to this ongoing mobility revolution. The company also continues to work closely with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to finalize vehicle certification, as well as guidelines for eVTOL pilot licensing.

With more than 150 AIR ONE preorders already secured, AIR is continuing to accept advance orders on its website, www.airev.aero.