Blueprint

AIR TRANSPORT

Long-range hybrid VTOL

A US start-up, Odys Aviation, has revealed a concept for a joined-wing nine-seat VTOL commuter/ regional aircraft that would cover 65% of US domestic air routes with a range of up to 1,000nm. The hybrid-electric aircraft uses distributed fixed propellers, combined with box wings and blown flaps, to achieve vertical take-off without the need for swivelling wings or nacelles. Odys intends to test the concept with a single-seat demonstrator this year, with plans to fly a full-size prototype in 2023. It has already attracted a Letter of Intent for 200 aircraft, with an option for 400 more from US ‘hop-on jet service’ regional carrier JSX Air.

Two pilots

The aircraft will feature seats for two pilots, although it will also be certificated for single-pilot operations. Full autonomy is a longer-term plan, say Odys, but explains that the landing/take-off, like the F-35B, will be heavily automated.

Distributed propulsion

Renderings of Odys Aviation’s aircraft feature 16 fixed propulsors arranged on the leading edges of both front and rear tandem wings. Distributed propulsion also benefits safety by increasing redundancy.

Hybrid power

The aircraft would use hybrid-electric propulsion, giving the option of a 200nm range with pure electric power or a range of 1,000nm with the hybrid range extender. Odys will be developing the power electronics and the motor-generator in-house.

Specifications

Range 1,000nm
Cruising altitude 30,000lb
Passengers 9 (+2 pilots)
Cruising speed 345mph

Box wing

The joined, box or diamond-wing has been considered before on previous concepts but has never been seen on a production passenger aircraft. The wing offers structural strength, reduced footprint for helipads and the potential for reduced drag by maximising the span efficiency. There is also a weight reduction from the lack of a horizontal tail.

Blown flaps

Distributed propulsion across the wing, coupled with two-piece large blown flaps that extend to 85º (compared to 35-40º on conventional aircraft) allow for super STOL or VTOL capability. Meanwhile, the box-wing design gives stability during the hover.