File this one under flying cars that look like broccoli. I’ve seen it, but never covered it. I also noticed that their X account has not been updated since mid 2022, but they did get some military support. Link: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3232095/airmen-fly-hexa-for-first-time/
"Our team's prior rotary wing experience gave us a framework of reference to work from regarding aerodynamics that apply to vertical takeoff and lift aircraft, crew resource management, and general flight operations at a military airfield,” said Maj. Victoria Snow, a 413th FLTS helicopter pilot who participated in the HEXA training. “Even though the technology is vastly different, understanding the mechanics of helicopter flying translates well to operating the HEXA."
The HEXA is an electric multirotor featuring 18 rotors (Holy redundancy!). It has a lightweight carbon fiber single-seat cabin, equipped with four landing floats that make it suitable for both land and water landings. Its control system is refreshingly straightforward, relying on a joystick and an iPad Pro for operation.
In contrast to helicopters, known for being extremely difficult to fly, the 432-pound (196-kilogram) Hexa feels more akin to a substantial drone equipped with a human seat. Thanks to a really smart flight controller and an array of sensors, the bulk of the flying responsibilities are seamlessly handled for you. Initiating takeoff and landing is as simple as pressing a button, and should a pilot release the control stick, the Hexa will autonomously maintain a stable GPS-locked position and altitude. (Sounds pretty easy)
In cases where a pilot encounters extreme unease or becomes disruptive, ground personnel have the capability to assume control using handheld controllers, ensuring a safe descent and landing. So if trying to escape after a bank heist, don’t expect to go far.
Interestingly, the Hexa takes a rather unconventional approach when it comes to its power source. Instead of relying on a single central battery pack, it incorporates 18 small batteries, with each one attaching beneath an individual rotor. This makes more sense - for cooling purposes, and if there is a problem with a central battery, everything can fall apart. With many batteries, you can still provide power to multiple motors if one or two fail.
Each small battery is positioned directly in the cooling airflow generated by the propeller above it, eliminating the need for any liquid cooling system. This aligns perfectly with Lift's vision of operating the Hexa throughout the day, as the batteries provide approximately 10-15 minutes of flight time (ok I hope they can improve this). Once the Hexa lands, ground personnel can swiftly unclip and replace the batteries with fully charged ones, readying the aircraft for its subsequent flight. Think of swapping batteries in your DJI.
Prior to taking flight, pilots will play a VR game (training, right) to get used to the control system. Using the joystick is straightforward: a simple push directs the aircraft in any chosen direction, with altitude adjustment controlled by the thumb and yaw control managed by the index finger. The company initially contemplated a twist-to-turn yaw control but found it less practical during flight tests compared to a separate control.
Once the training is completed, you're ready to go. Operating under the powered ultralight classification, which means it requires no certification or pilot's license, the Hexa is subject to certain limitations. It can only fly below 700 feet, although in specific locations, this ceiling may extend to 1200 feet. Furthermore, it must avoid flying over populated areas. The maximum speed for ultralights is capped at 55 knots, equivalent to roughly 63 mph (101 km/h) in ground speed terms. Matt Chasen emphasizes that if the Hexa demonstrates the potential to exceed this speed, it will be electronically restricted from doing so. So, basically you don’t get the training wheels taken off your vehicle.. ever. Well that’s not fun, and on top of that, the aircraft will operate within predefined geofenced flying areas for safety and regulatory compliance.
But come on that’s just for our safety. Ok now if you have $495,000 to blow, you can go here to pick one up (only 2 left!) https://www.liftaircraft.com/ownership