On the occasion of the Vivatech fair, Franky Zapata unveiled his latest invention: the Air Scooter, a single-seat vertical landing aircraft (V-Tol). The fully glazed cabin is egg-shaped and two joysticks are used to control the machine: the one on the left to change direction, the one on the right to gain height. A flight computer ensures the routes and, in the event of a technical problem, an artificial intelligence takes over for an automatic landing.
Thus, the Air Scooter is to airplanes what mopeds are to motorcycles, hence the choice of its name. The machine is easy to control and does not require a license or long learning curve. Budding pilots will be able to reach an altitude of 3000 meters and travel at 100 km/h. Its hybrid motor, created by Zapata, offers up to 2 hours of autonomy.
Flight centers in the United States
The device is a “ultralight” of the category “PART 103”. Therefore, it does not require a flight certificate or a pilot’s license. This legislation does not apply in France, but it does in the United States or China. It allows these devices to be used for “recreational” purposes only. It is based on this regulation that Zapata will finally launch a commercial offer.
Starting next year, his company will open “flight centers” in the United States to offer “recreational flying.” The first will open in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, not far from Phoenix, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Clients will travel in squadrons with an experienced guide.
Tourism is the first development lever of the Air Scooter. As soon as the regulations allow it, Zapata intends to address the mobility market.
Source: BFM TV
