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 35-foot drop tests, on eVTOL air taxi models to study optimal materials and enhance passenger safety.
These tests validate computer predictions for material behavior and energy-absorbing designs, with the resulting data to be publicly shared to help eVTOL developers improve their aircraft.
The research aims to inform safety regulations and certification for advanced air mobility, contributing to the overall development and safe integration of electric air taxis.
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.
