Terrafugia's Flying Car Deemed "Rock Solid"

Officially called the "Transition Roadable Aircraft Proof of Concept", the two-seat aircraft was flown for the first time on March 5, 2009, at Plattsburgh International Airport in Plattsburg, NY, by U.S. Air Force Col. Phil Meteer.  "Stability is always a question on your first flight", Meteer said. "It was just rock solid. It handled like a normal plane and there were no surprises. It was remarkable for being unremarkable. It just flew like a really nice airplane." terrafugia.com/Phil_Interview.html

It was a runway flight, with the aircraft only flying above the runway. The flight from takeoff to landing lasted only about 30 seconds.  Terrafugia said the test proved the Transition is ready for more advanced flying.

Taking less than 30 seconds to transform from plane to car, the four-wheel aircraft resembles a Volkswagen Beetle with wings and a propeller in the back.  Capable of flying 450 miles at more than 115 mph, the front-wheel drive vehicle runs on unleaded gasoline, has a top speed of 65 mph and gets 30 miles to the gallon.

Categorized as a light sport aircraft, buyers will need a sport pilot license to fly the Transition legally. Terrafugia has not said when the flying car will be available, but it is taking orders.  Buyers will have to put up a $10,000 deposit.  The Transition is expected to cost $194,000.

Comments

[Jasen Barnes]

Cool video of the flight
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2toej5yiEno