Flying Motorbike Helix Takes Flight as Personal Aircraft: Order Yours Today
The era of personal aircraft is on the horizon, and the Helix, developed by Pivotal (formerly known as Opener), is leading the charge. This single-seat flying vehicle, often referred to as a flying motorbike, has been meticulously designed to comply with America’s rules for microlight aircraft. What sets the Helix apart is that it can be flown by anyone, regardless of whether they hold a pilot’s license or not, as long as they operate it over non-built-up areas. With a price tag of $190,000, the Helix is set to become available for personal use next year, with deliveries expected to commence in June.
The journey to bring the Helix to life has been an arduous one for Marcus Leng, the founder of Pivotal. With a background in mechanical engineering, Leng was driven by his passion for flight. In 2011, he took a leap of faith and built a prototype called BlackFly, which became the first manned electric aircraft to achieve lift-off. Despite its crude construction, featuring carbon-fiber struts and wooden propellers, BlackFly paved the way for further development.
Over the course of twelve years, Pivotal has refined the original concept and transformed it into a marketable product. The Helix retains its distinctive design, featuring two pairs of wings and eight propellers, resembling a flattened H shape when viewed from below. Notable improvements include a monocoque body replacing the original struts and the incorporation of a curved belly that provides stability during landings.
While the Helix offers an exhilarating flying experience, potential buyers will still need some training before taking to the skies. Pivotal insists on this requirement to ensure safety and prevent accidents that could be detrimental to sales. Furthermore, the aircraft’s software imposes constraints to maintain aerodynamic stability, and as an additional safety measure, it comes equipped with a parachute. In the event of an emergency, pulling a lever triggers an explosive charge, freeing the parachute and allowing for a safe descent.
The Helix boasts a respectable top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph), but its range is limited to 30 km (18.6 miles). Refueling the aircraft can be somewhat time-consuming, taking approximately 4½ hours when connected to a standard power source. However, a high-power system akin to those used for electric cars can reduce the charging time to just 75 minutes, offering a more convenient option for users.
While the Helix is not quite the futuristic family saloon from The Jetsons, it represents a significant step towards the realization of personal flying vehicles. With its innovative design, compliance with regulations, and emphasis on safety, the Helix has the potential to revolutionize the way we commute and explore the skies.
In conclusion, Pivotal’s Helix is poised to make personal air travel a reality. As the market for e VTOL aircraft continues to evolve, Pivotal remains committed to delivering a cutting-edge product that meets the needs and aspirations of aviation enthusiasts. With the Helix set to hit the market in the coming year, flying enthusiasts around the world can look forward to soaring through the skies in their very own flying motorbike.
