Conventional aviation is gradually making room for greener alternatives, including the futuristic eVTOLs (electric vertical takeoff and landing) that come in various shapes and sizes. We can anticipate witnessing more traditional events in the aviation industry highlighting the most exciting electric aircraft, such as the highly sought-after Jetson One.
Attendees of this year’s “Volo in Rosa” event in Milan, Italy, organized by the Volandia Aviation Museum and Park, had the privilege to closely examine the coveted personal eVTOL known as Jetson One. This electric personal aircraft was prominently displayed during an event focused particularly on women in aviation.
One notable aspect of this event is its provision of a training grant for women aspiring to become pilots, either through a CPL (Commercial Pilot License) or an ATPL (Airline Transport Pilot License). Interestingly, the eVTOL showcased this year was designed specifically to make the skies accessible to everyone, eliminating the need for any formal pilot license.
While many eVTOLs are designed for air taxi services, some are aimed at empowering individuals to become pilots of their own environmentally friendly flying machines.
The Jetson One stands out as a top choice in the public’s perception, evident from its substantial pre-order backlog. Despite its steep pricing, currently set at $128,000, the futuristic aircraft are already sold out for 2024 and 2025.
This recent event further solidifies Jetson’s connection with Italy. Last year, three units of the single-seat eVTOL were showcased at the ZeroEmission Mediterranean event in Rome. Jetson had obtained official approval from Italian authorities to operate its aircraft in unmanned mode through remote control and certify it as an ultralight eVTOL.
The Aero Club d’Italia (AeCI) issued registration certification for Jetson One as an ultralight eVTOL, permitting licensed pilots to fly the pre-production aircraft in Italy’s uncontrolled airspace. This authorization is crucial for conducting test flights, including unmanned ones, in the region.
Jetson recently relocated its main operations from Poland to Italy, establishing its R&D and production facility in Arezzo, Tuscany. This location also serves as a Jetson pilot school and customer experience center.
However, Jetson One has ambitions beyond European borders. In 2023, the personal eVTOL completed its inaugural flight in the US, piloted by Jetson founder Tomasz Patan. The company has confirmed plans to establish its first American headquarters soon, while celebrities like Will.i.am are poised to become some of the initial trained Jetson pilots.