Pivotal HelixPivotal Helix: The successor to Blackfly
PropertySpecification
Aircraft NamePivotal Helix
Aircraft TypeOne‑seat, light eVTOL; tilt aircraft with fixed rotors and tandem wings
Number of Propellers8 (four per wing)
Diameter of PropellersNot specified in publicly available specifications
Powerplant8 electric motors (one per propeller)
Energy SourceBattery packs, total capacity 8 kWh
Aircraft Weight (Empty)348 lb (158 kg)
Maximum Takeoff Weight568 lb (258 kg)
Payload (Maximum)220 lb (100 kg)
RangeOver 20 miles (32 km)

Key Unique Features of the Pivotal Helix

  • Tilt-Aircraft Architecture
    Unlike typical multicopters or tilt-rotor designs, the entire aircraft tilts to transition between vertical takeoff/landing and forward flight—reducing mechanical complexity and weight while boosting reliability.
  • Triple Modular Redundant Flight Controls
    The Helix incorporates triple modular redundancy in its flight control systems, delivering robust fault tolerance across critical functions.
  • Ballistic Parachute for Whole-Aircraft Emergency Safety
    An entire-aircraft ballistic parachute is included to provide an additional layer of safety during in-flight emergencies.
  • Auto Takeoff, Auto Landing & Flight Envelope Protection
    The aircraft features automated takeoff and landing, along with flight envelope protection and position-hold hovering capabilities—enhancing safety and ease of operation.
  • Comprehensive Mobile App Integration
    Pivotal’s companion smartphone app supports flight prep and operation with preflight checklists, navigation tools, flight analytics, customer support, and telemetry.
  • Rapid Disassembly & Transportability
    The Helix can be fully disassembled or assembled in about 30 minutes and fits into a 16-foot trailer—making it highly portable.
  • Tilt-Canopy Cockpit with Wide Visibility
    Its 270-degree canopy provides panoramic visibility, creating an immersive flying experience.
  • Quiet and Impressive Design Accolades
    Recognized with awards such as the 2024 World Future Award for Best Advanced eVTOL System, thanks to its serene operation and immersive cockpit design. The Helix is notably quiet during cruise, rated at around 72 dBa at 150 ft.
  • Lightweight, High-Safety Composite Structure
    Featuring a carbon-fiber composite fuselage and tandem-wing layout, the Helix is optimized for strength, durability, and safety.
  • FAA Part 103 Ultralight Classification (No License Required)
    The Helix qualifies as an ultralight aircraft under FAA Part 103 in the U.S., meaning no pilot’s license is required—though training is mandatory.

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