New capabilities
With Magpie, an eVTOL takes off vertically – e.g. at an air-taxi landing pad, or a remote base – and then connects autonomously with a tow aircraft in the sky. This unlocks several practical new use cases.
Long-range flights
Magpie aerotowing can enable eVTOLs to fly high payloads over long distances, e.g. for remote logistics and military operations. The additional range also unlocks key commercial routes like San Francisco-Los Angeles, London-Amsterdam and Sydney-Melbourne.
Continuous operations
Magpie can enable an eVTOL to fly a continuous sequence of flights without the need for long charging breaks at expensive landing pads. In this example, the tow aircraft holds in the air as the eVTOL quickly loads/unloads. It then re-connects to bring the eVTOL to its next destination. This significantly increases the utilisation and operating economics of the eVTOL.
eVTOL Ferrying
Similar to the long-range case, Magpie can help to ferry eVTOLs over significant distances. This allows eVTOLs operators to more flexibly deploy their fleets – e.g. during times of high demand in another city or region.
