Elroy Air has successfully reached transition speed with its hybrid-electric, vertical takeoff and landing (hVTOL) aircraft, Chaparral.
The company said on August 14 that three transition speed flights have occurred since July 31. “On each flight, the aircraft autonomously transitioned from vertical takeoff to forward flight, completing the flight with a vertical landing,” Elroy Air said, adding that the Chaparral flew at a maximum speed of 70mph. “The Chaparral is now flying efficiently at speed with up to four times less power demand when in forward cruise flight compared to vertical takeoff. The team plans to demonstrate a 25 mile flight later this month.”
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