The pilot-less capsule-style electric Vertical Take-off and Landing aircraft, developed by Magnum Wings, in Guntur.
| Photo Credit: T. VIJAYA KUMAR
A compact, pilot-less capsule-style electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft capable of carrying two passengers was recently unveiled in Guntur. The aircraft can travel up to 40 kilometres at a speed of 100 kmph and reach an altitude of 2,000 feet. It can be operated remotely or piloted manually, according to company officials. The initial test run was conducted without passengers or a pilot, with the aircraft controlled remotely from the ground. It can also navigate using a pre-set travel programme.
The aircraft has been developed by Magnum Wings, a startup that began research in 2017. The company recently conducted a successful test flight of the prototype, which is intended for use as an air car. The vehicle is a workable model but requires regulatory approvals before commercial deployment.
Abhiram Chava, founder CEO of Magnum Wings, told The Hindu on Tuesday that they have finalised the V2 Vehicle (Version 1) and recently completed a successful test run without a human onboard. He stated that for passenger travel, the aircraft requires clearance and approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the statutory body regulating civil aviation in India.
The V2 aircraft is designed to carry two passengers with a payload capacity of 220 kg. Another version is in development that will accommodate three people, including a pilot. The aircraft requires a landing space of approximately 3.5 to 4 metres and can be operated similarly to a personal vehicle. However, a basic pilot certification will be necessary, which can be completed in about a week. Magnum Wings plans to provide this certification after obtaining the necessary DGCA approvals. As the manufacturer, the company can offer training directly or through third-party providers.
Mr. Abhiram said that the V2 version is equipped with eight batteries, eight propellers, eight motors and flight controllers. Even if two or more motors or propellers fail mid-flight, the aircraft can continue operating safely. In emergencies, it is designed to deploy a parachute for a secure landing. He emphasised that the vehicle is extremely safe and will be priced similarly to a premium car.
Air traffic management will be handled by the Civil Aviation Department of the government of India, and the aircraft will require route clearance before takeoff. Since it is an electric vehicle, it can be recharged anywhere, making it a convenient mode of transport that saves travel time.
He also revealed that the company is developing two additional versions capable of carrying four and eight passengers, respectively. Unlike the V2, these models will require a pilot for operation.
Mr. Abhiram explained that the Bharat Vertical Take-off and Landing (B-VTOL) Aircraft policy is currently under review by the Civil Aviation Department of the Government of India. “Once implemented, these vertical landing vehicles can be introduced in the market. The certification criteria applies to piloted VTOL aircraft with a maximum takeoff weight between 150 kg and 5,000 kg, intended for use in Advanced Air Mobility,” he said.
Published – March 26, 2025 12:03 am IST
