Lift-off! Airbus completes the first test flight of its self-flying TAXI, Vahana
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In what marks a major step towards flying taxis, Airbus has completed a successful test flight of its autonomous aircraft , Vahana.
The test flight, which took place at the Pendleton UAS Range, saw the electric vehicle take-off vertically, reaching a height of five metres before descending safely.
Zach Lovering, Project Executive of Vahana, said: “Today we are celebrating a great accomplishment in aerospace innovation.
“In just under two years, Vahana took a concept sketch on a napkin and built a full-scale, self-piloted aircraft that has successfully completed its first flight.
(Image: A3)
"Our team is grateful for the support we’ve received from A³ and the extended Airbus family, as well as our partners including MTSI and the Pendleton UAS Range."
Project Vahana began in 2016 and is one of the first projects at A³ - the advanced projects and partnerships outpost of Airbus Group in Silicon Valley.
The vehicle has room for one passenger, who sits under a canopy that retracts like a motorcycle helmet visor.
(Image: A3)
Vahana takes off and lands vertically, using helicopter-like struts and tilting wings, each with four motors.
Rodin Lyasoff, CEO at A³, said: “Vahana’s first flight demonstrates Airbus’ unique ability to pursue ambitious ideas quickly, without compromising the quality and safety for which the company is well-known.
“For A³, it proves that we can deliver meaningful innovation with aggressive project timetables, to provide a real competitive advantage for Airbus.
(Image: A3)
“Our focus now is on celebrating the work of the tireless Vahana team while maintaining the momentum of this accomplishment.”
While a timeline for the project remains unclear, Airbus has previously claimed that it will have a model on the market by 2020.
The team is now planning additional tests, including transitions and forward flight.