The latest chapter in pioneering flight at the former RAF Bicester was added on 30 June courtesy of nearby Skyfly Technologies, which successfully conducted Europe’s maiden airfield-to-airfield flyby by an electric vertical take off and landing (eVTOL)-capable aircraft.
Dr William Brooks, chief technical officer of Skyfly, piloted the Ace prototype from Turweston Airfield to Bicester Motion’s airfield and back, flying for a total of 20 minutes and reaching a height of 3500ft.
“The aircraft performed very well,” said Dr Brooks. “It has a gentle feel in turbulence, giving the impression of more span because of the motor masses at the tips. The comfort, outstanding view and lack of noise make for enjoyable flying.”
The Axe landed on the historic grass airfield operated by Bicester Motion, the same patch that first welcomed aircraft in 1911.