Terrafugia, Inc., developer of the Transition Roadable Aircraft, or “Flying Car,” has received an exemption from the FAA to allow the Transition a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 1,430 pounds. This additional weight accommodates the structure and equipment necessary for compliance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), which are not found in other Light Sport Aircraft, company officials said, noting items such as airbags, an energy absorbing crumple zone, and a protective safety cage will increase safety both on the road and in the air.
Classified as a LSA, the Transition requires a Sport Pilot certificate to fly and is designed to drive on roads and park in a standard garage. Terrafugia successfully completed flight and drive testing of its Proof of Concept Transition in 2009. Refundable airframe reservations are being accepted with first delivery scheduled for late 2011.
Terrafugia (terra-FOO-gee-ah), based in Woburn, MA, was founded by five pilots who are graduates of MIT. “Terrafugia” is Latin for “escape from land.”
For more information: Terrafugia.com
