Researchers at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Virginia conduct a drop test of a full-scale aircraft body modeled after an electric air taxi. [Courtesy: NASA/Mark Knopp]
Key Takeaways:
NASA is conducting crash simulations, including dropping full-scale eVTOL air taxi mockups from 35 feet, to identify optimal materials and energy-absorbing technologies for enhanced aircraft safety.
The initial tests validated computer simulation predictions, and NASA will publicly share the gathered data to help eVTOL developers improve designs and facilitate safety regulations and certification.
These crash tests are part of NASA's extensive efforts, including partnerships with major manufacturers, to research and enable the safe integration of advanced air mobility aircraft into the national airspace.
NASA researchers are simulating crashes to study the optimal materials for a new generation of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis.
Per a recent media release, the space agency in June dropped a full-scale aircraft body—modeled after an eVTOL air taxi—from a 35-foot gantry at its Langley Research Center in Virginia.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
