LIFT Aircraft
Hexa is configured with one seat for the pilot. Credit: maform kft.

LIFT Aircraft has unveiled its new Hexa electric, vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to help people take recreational flights.

The 432lb semi-autonomous, personal multirotor aircraft looks similar to a large drone and is equipped with 18 sets of propellers, motors and batteries.

Hexa has a single-seat configuration and is certified as a ultralight vehicle by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which eliminates the need for a pilot’s licence to fly the aircraft.

Compared with traditional helicopters, Hexa can fly with up to six of its 18 motors out. It includes a ballistic parachute that gets autonomously deployed in case of an emergency.

“We didn’t want to wait for major technology or regulatory breakthroughs to start flying.”

The aircraft also features five floats to safely land on water and can be controlled remotely by pilots in case of an emergency.

After completing training in virtual reality simulators, anyone aged more than 18, up to 6ft 5in tall and weighs 250lb can fly Hexa for up to 15 minutes.

LIFT Aircraft CEO Matt Chasen said: “Multi-seat eVTOL air taxis, especially those that are designed to transition to wingborne flight, are probably ten years away and will require new regulations and significant advances in battery technology to be practical and safe.

“We didn’t want to wait for major technology or regulatory breakthroughs to start flying.”

LIFT Aircraft is planning to open a number of locations for individuals to rent the Hexa aircraft.

The company also aims to own and operate fleets of aircraft in scenic and traffic-free areas near major cities, tourist destinations and entertainment hubs.