Aska's A5 flying car gets green light from FAA, bringing it closer to flight

Last week, another US sustainable electric transportation company Alef Aeronautics also received special airworthiness certification from the FAA for its Model A flying car prototype. However, it had restricted the areas and objectives for which Alef may fly.

According to Aska, it is working with the FAA towards achieving type certification. "Type certification signifies the design is in compliance with applicable airworthiness, noise, fuel venting, and exhaust emissions standards," said a press statement. 

A highly practical offering for short-city runs

The Aska A5, the size of an SUV, is a drive-and-fly eVTOL that can travel by both land and air. The A5 is equipped with a hybrid energy system that consists of batteries and a range extender engine that charges the batteries during flight, utilizing readily available premium gasoline from existing gas stations. The A5 can offer a maximum flight range of 250 miles (402 kilometers) and reach airspeeds of up to 150 mph (241 kph).

Boasting large aerodynamic wings optimized for safe landings and the ability to glide, the A5 features six independent motor systems for a smooth and reliable flight experience. Meeting the rigorous safety requirements of the FAA, the vehicle ensures sufficient reserve flight time, bolstered by a ballistic parachute for added reassurance. 

With seating for four individuals, including a pilot and three passengers, the Aska A5 effortlessly performs vertical takeoffs and landings from helipads, as well as short takeoffs and landings from runways. According to its creators, it can "enter an airfield by driving through the airport gate, open the wings, taxi towards a helipad or runway, then take off. The vehicle can also perform an energy-efficient short takeoff from the runway using the in-wheel motors and thrust from the props."

It can operate with existing on-road infrastructure

For a smooth integration into urban and suburban settings, Aska A5 makes the most of already-existing infrastructure, including parking, charging stations, airfields, helipads, and runways. The range extender engine is powered by premium gasoline that can be purchased at existing automobile gas stations, and the car fits in conventional parking spaces and can be charged at home and at EV charging stations.

Given that it can make the most use of current infrastructure, such as the numerous charging stations, a roadworthy eVTOL does not need the renovation or electrification of existing airports. "We are working with local airports in the Bay Area to test and confirm our concept of operations - they open the gate, Aska A5 drives in as a car, drives/taxis to the helipad or runway, transforms into the flight mode and can take off," said Guy Kaplinsky, CEO and co-founder of Aska.