AMSL Aero, a pioneer in zero-emissions aviation, has made Australian history by completing the first free flight of Vertiia, the country’s first passenger-capable, long-range electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
The historic test flight, conducted in New South Wales’ Central West region, marks a significant leap forward in sustainable aviation, as revealed in a media release.
Vertiia, which operates with zero carbon emissions, successfully completed over 50 untethered flights since its initial take-off earlier this month.
The flight was powered by batteries and operated remotely under Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulations.
Designed to fly up to 1,000 kilometres on hydrogen at speeds of 300 kilometers per hour, Vertiia can accommodate four passengers and a pilot.
AMSL Aero plans to begin hydrogen-fuelled flight tests in 2025, targeting certification and commercial operation by 2027.
“This landmark is proof that the design we pioneered seven years ago works, and it moves us closer to our goal of improving the lives of remote, rural and regional communities in Australia and around the world with an aircraft that conquers the tyranny of distance with zero emissions,” said Andrew Moore, AMSL Aero Co-Founder, Chief Engineer, and Vertiia inventor.
AMSL Aero’s advancements have already garnered significant interest, with deposits placed for 26 Vertiia aircraft.
Aviation Logistics, which manages Air Link, AirMed, and Chartair, has ordered 20 units for operations ranging from passenger transport to aeromedical flights.
Chief Executive Max York highlighted the achievement as a testament to the company’s expertise and vision.
“Very few aircraft companies build a full-scale aircraft and get it safely off the ground. What AMSL Aero has achieved with a small, focused team is incredible and shows what can be done when you have a clear vision and amazing talent,” York said.
