To create the Helix, Pivotal’s personal aircraft – a company founded in 2011 in Palo Alto, California – over 12 years of work were required. The aircraft, with its stated goal of ‘bringing the wonder of flight to anyone with a spirit of adventure,’ is designed for experienced pilots who expect high performance from their flying machines, but also caters to beginners. It is intended for use across the United States only, without the need for a pilot’s license, although simulator training and additional tests are required.
The Helix features a single seat, two wings (each with four propellers), and eight electric motors. Its weight, excluding the lift and safety systems, is about 115 kg, and its maximum weight capacity, including cargo, is over 260 kg. The flight speed exceeds 100 km/h, and its flight range, with fully charged batteries, is approximately 32 km.
The Pivotal Helix, an eVTOL aircraft, is equipped with automatic takeoff and landing systems, with the ability to hover in place. It is designed to land easily on various surfaces, including complex ones like water, grass, or snow. It is capable of making emergency water landings and features a ballistic parachute for emergencies.
The Helix can be ordered across the United States in packages that combine accessories and services, and it may be delivered to buyers as early as this July. There is also a dedicated app, which includes a pre-flight checklist, navigation tools, flight planning, statistics, flight analysis tools, and more. The price: approximately $190,000.
