11 January 2024
+VIDEO The Opener Blackfly is no longer. It’s now the Pivotal Helix and the weird single-seat all-electric flying thing has gone on sale in the US at a base price of $190,000.
Customers can place orders for delivery in the US on Pivotal’s website. First customer shipments begin on June 10, 2024.
The Helix can be flown in the US without a pilot’s licence as it’s the FAA Part 103 (Ultralight) category.
However, training is required, said Pivotal. “All Helix pilots must successfully complete comprehensive initial and periodic recurrent flight training to support safe operations in all situations.”
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The Helix is flown using ‘intuitive’ joystick controls, guided by a simple user interface.
“At the heart of this single-seat vehicle lies a robust fault-tolerant design, bolstered by triple modular flight control systems for safety and reliability,” said a statement from Pivotal.
“Efficient, compact, and simple, the Helix is transportable and easy to assemble — from storage to sky in 30 minutes. It disassembles to fit into a 16-foot trailer.”
Ken Karklin, Pivotal CEO, added, “The market is ready for the wonder of aerial recreation and short-hop eVTOL travel. We are ready to provide the beauty and freedom of personal flight to a whole lot of people with a passion for flying and an interest in creating a new generation of aviators and aviation.”
The Helix is offered in three configurations, with further options:.