Umiles Next’s aircraft concept, named Integrity, equipped with FlyFree technology developed by research partner Tecnalia, took to the skies successfully in Spain.
This was the first time the Concept Integrity prototype has flown in open air space in Spain and the aircraft’s second free flight after it took successfully to the skies of Toulouse back in September. This was also more than just a regular flight test. It was a part of a complex European project, USPACE4UAM, which is intended to safely integrate mixed operations, including manned and unmanned vehicles, into urban settings.
The test flights took place at the ATLAS Test Flight Centre in Villacarrillo, Jaén, Spain, which specializes in testing tactical remotely-piloted systems and unmanned aviation technologies. These flights allow Umiles Next and Tecnalia to run further tests on their eVTOL prototype, paving the way for the future integration of the air taxi into urban airspace.
The Concept Integrity was flanked at the testing event by other unmanned aircraft at different layers with a view to proving that this new traffic type can be safely and seamlessly integrated into urban areas in the near future.
The Integrity is the first eVTOL boasting 100% Spanish technology and manufacturing. Integrity 3 can carry two passengers at 220 km/h (137 mph), has a flight range of up to 125 km (78 miles), and is capable of automatic take-off, height control, and landing.
The air taxi will continue its series of flight tests in various European cities as part of USPACE4UAM. The next stop for further testing is Lugo.
