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 full-scale drop tests of eVTOL air taxi mockups, to study optimal materials and validate energy-absorbing designs for enhanced occupant safety.
The data from these tests, which confirmed computer simulation predictions, will be publicly shared with eVTOL developers to improve aircraft designs and inform the development of safety regulations.
These crashworthiness studies are part of a broader NASA initiative, in collaboration with leading air taxi manufacturers, to support the safe development and integration of advanced air mobility aircraft through comprehensive research.
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.
