An anonymous reader writes: POINT ROBERTS, WASHINGTON — (MARKET WIRE) — 02/14/07 — Skyflyer Inc. the "Company") announced today that, subject to available financing, it is planning to commence construction of its prototype for the Skyflyer VTOL (vertical take-off and landing vehicle) within the next few months. The Skyflyer VTOL is a one to two-seater flying machine, designed to be piloted by members of the general public without the need for extensive training. This aircraft, designed by the Company, is expected to be usable in a variety of recreational and passenger applications. The current design contemplates that the Skyflyer will operate within an electronically and/or physically controlled airspace.
Actual construction and testing of the initial prototype is expected to take approximately 6 months. The motor driven flying machine is expected to be able to take-off and land vertically, and its design gives it a spaceship-type look. The prototype is expected to have a diameter of approximately 4 m, with a height of 1.8 m, and a weight of approximately 700 kg. It is expected to have a rate of take-off of 0.1 m/s and a horizontal speed capability of 0 to 60 km/h. The general flight and control characteristics of the Skyflyer are expected to be somewhat similar to that of a helicopter. For safety reasons, the Company also expects to equip the Skyflyer with a GPS navigation system, remote controls enabling ground personnel to take control of the aircraft, and distance sensors. Subject to the Company obtaining financing in an amount sufficient to enable it to fund its development program, the first flight and data tests are expected to be conducted by the end of this year.
In addition to its plans for the Skyflyer itself, the Company has been planning the development of a testing and demonstration facility to be located in Wegberg-Wildenrath, Germany. Subject to financing, the Company hopes to have this testing and demonstration facility operating in 2008. This planned facility will be used to test the flight characteristics of the Skyflyer, to simulate and control various flight plan concepts, and to optimize the system software for the Skyflyer and other equipment.
The Company hopes that its Skyflyer VTOL aircraft will revolutionize the leisure and entertainment business. The Company believes that, as an attraction, the Skyflyer could surpass even giant indoor ski slopes and the most spectacular fairground ride. The Company hopes that the Skyflyer will be able to bring to reality humanity's dreams of flying personal aircraft.
