Maiden Flight of 'Flying Car' Called Rock Solid

By Antone Gonsalves

Aircraft maker Terrafugia says its "flying car," known as the Transition Roadable Aircraft Proof of Concept, had a successful maiden flight in Plattsburgh, N.Y., on March 5. The flight, during which the flying car flew above the runway for about 30 seconds, was hailed by Terrafugia as proof that the Transition is prepared for more advanced work. The test pilot, retired Air Force Col. Phil Meteer, says the vehicle offered "rock solid" stability and "just flew like a really nice airplane. The two-seat, four-wheel vehicle looks similar to a Volkswagen Beetle with wings and a propeller in the back, but the wings can fold out to essentially transform it into an airplane. Buyers would need a sport pilot license to fly the vehicle, which is intended to give pilots a "convenient ground transportation option."

April 15, 2009