Following the Axe’s North American debut at the Experimental Aircraft Association’s ‘AirVenture’ show in July, Skyfly’s prototype Axe VCA (Serial Number 001, registration N250EV) will now remain in the United States, where the flight test programme will continue.

Relocating flight testing to the USA will allow the programme to benefit from more stable weather through the winter. It will also allow Axe SN001 to act as a customer demonstrator in the country – which is expected to become the largest market for private VCAs and eVTOLs.

“Receiving FAA Experimental authorisation is a major milestone for Skyfly. It allows us to move forward with piloted flight testing under the world’s most respected aviation regulator, while positioning the Axe at the heart of the US market – the largest and most dynamic general aviation community in the world. With this approval, the Axe begins the next phase of its journey from prototype to production aircraft, as we continue to demonstrate that a safe, efficient, and truly practical personal electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft is already here.” – Michael Thompson, CEO

The FAA has already recognised the importance of private eVTOL and VCAs to the General Aviation market, announcing updated MOSAIC rules in July that will – for the first time – enable eVTOLs to be certified as a Light Sport Aircraft.

This simplifies the certification process and will allow the Axe to be flown by those holding a Sports Pilot Certificate, in addition to a full pilot licence. The new rules will also allow the Axe to be used for some commercial purposes.

Customers that have ordered their aircraft will be invited to demonstrations of the aircraft at select locations across the US.