The AIR ONE is an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft designed for personal ownership, developed by the Israeli startup AIR. Unlike many eVTOLs that are intended for urban air taxi services, the AIR ONE is targeted at individual pilots who want to experience personal aviation with an electric aircraft. The two-seater vehicle is engineered for convenience, with collapsible wings and a home-charging feature that allows it to fit seamlessly into personal transportation routines.
Key specifications and performance
The AIR ONE features an all-electric powertrain that enables it to fly up to 110 miles (177 km) on a single charge. It can reach a maximum speed of 155 mph (250 km/h) and has a flight endurance of about one hour under normal operating conditions. The aircraft uses a Fly-By-Intent™ control system, simplifying piloting by allowing users to direct the aircraft using a center joystick while the onboard system maintains stability, direction, and altitude.
The AIR ONE is equipped with a CCS-standard charging system, meaning it can be charged using public EV fast DC charging stations. A full charge from 0% to 100% takes about one hour, while charging from 20% to 80% can be completed in approximately 30 minutes. Additionally, the aircraft can be charged at home using a compatible adapter, making it more practical for private owners who want to operate it from their own property.
Storage and usability
One of the standout features of the AIR ONE is its collapsible wings, which allow it to fit in most standard garages or driveways. Unlike larger eVTOLs that require designated vertiports for takeoff and landing, the AIR ONE is designed to operate from any flat surface, providing greater flexibility in use.
The cockpit is designed with two seats and an intuitive control system that reduces the learning curve for new pilots. The aircraft also includes a secondary control stick, which is primarily used during flight training but can also serve as a backup control option if needed.
Safety and operational controls
AIR has integrated multiple safety features into the AIR ONE to ensure stability and minimize risks. The Fly-By-Intent™ system ensures that the aircraft remains within a safe flight envelope at all times, reducing the likelihood of accidents caused by pilot error. AIR has also emphasized its use of redundant systems to enhance safety during flight.
The company believes the AIR ONE can open new possibilities for personal aviation. According to AIR’s CEO, Rani Plaut, “We believe that personal air mobility is the next step in the evolution of transportation, and the AIR ONE brings that vision into reality for individual users.”
Availability and pricing
AIR has already received pre-orders for the AIR ONE, and the company has been conducting test flights to refine its technology and gain regulatory approvals. The aircraft is expected to cater to individuals who want a personal electric aircraft for recreational use or short-distance travel.
As of now, AIR has not publicly disclosed the final pricing of the AIR ONE. However, given its focus on private ownership, it is expected to be positioned competitively within the emerging eVTOL market.
Conclusion
The AIR ONE stands out as a personal eVTOL designed for private ownership rather than commercial air taxi operations. With its compact design, home-charging capability, and easy-to-use flight controls, it aims to make electric aviation more accessible to individual users. As the company moves closer to commercial availability, the AIR ONE could mark a shift in how personal air travel is approached, providing an alternative to traditional small aircraft and helicopters for private owners.
Source: AIR
