Ryse Aerotech's Recon, a one-passenger eVTOL multi-copter aircraft is not designed for urban use, but is made for farmers and ranchers, which means that it will be easy to operate. In fact, it is a buy 'n' fly ultralight aircraft that doesn't require a pilot license, as reported by Interesting Engineering.
(Photo : Unsplash/Chris Leipelt)
Chris Leipelt
The company hopes that the Recon will be a practical solution for ranchers and farmers to get around their land. With the Recon, they can glide through the sky and access areas that may otherwise be challenging to reach.
Its first manned flight test was conducted recently, and the company released a video of it. You can watch the video here. The flight test was successful, but the company will hold several more tests to ensure that the vehicle is safe to fly around once they launch it to the public.
The test flights "were a monumental step forward in accomplishing our mission, which is to provide an accessible aircraft to people with a purpose and make flight accessible to all," according to Mick Kowitz, the CEO of Ryse. He also said that the missions proved that the vehicle is reliable, stable, and safe.
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Basic But Performs Well
The Recon comes with a basic form- it has a drone-style six-prop multi-copter with six mothers. It only has a single seat in the middle. It can also make water- and land-based take-offs and landings. With that, there's also no need for runways.
It features an aluminum frame and can carry a payload of up to 200 lb. Meanwhile, its battery can power the aircraft for 25 minutes, or around 25 miles. However, this will depend on the weight of the pilot and the weather conditions.
One of the best things about the Recon is that it is said that the battery packs are inexpensive and replaceable. They are removable so users can have spare sets onsite for maximum convenience. Its speed can go up to 58 mph with a comfortable cruising speed of 40 mph.
When it comes to its control scheme, it's also very basic. It comes with a pair of joysticks and its flight control module is enhanced with technology that can detect and avoid obstacles. The aircraft has a maximum altitude to 700 ft above ground level. It is likely that it will be restricted to use in fair weather with low wind conditions. The Recon is somewhat like a flying ATV that is effortless and enjoyable to fly.
The Recon is estimated to cost around $150,000, and it will be launched commercially in the first quarter of 2023. For now, the company plans to conduct several more tests with the Recon. Next year, it will be ready to fly and perhaps, make a dent in the agricultural industry.
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Written by: April Fowell
